The sun had not yet risen above the treetops when hurried footsteps echoed through the house. Luara's mother barely had time to open the door before Talia and Mila burst in like a whirlwind. Talia, as always, was the first to speak—her voice loud, her face red with indignation.

“Do you realize what they're saying, Luara?” she asked, crossing her arms, her whole body trembling with rage. “That viper Selena spread the rumor that you poisoned Kade! That you only saved him to clear ...