Betty's POV. 

Dawn slipped quietly through the curtains, brushing the room in a soft, golden light. 

A gentle knock at the door jerked me from the haze of sleep, my chest fluttering and my hands tightening on the blanket.

I opened the door to see the maid, standing calmly, her posture patient and composed. Her words came softly, but they landed like cold water. “It’s time for your training.”

I froze for a heartbeat, then felt the sudden jolt of adrenaline rush through me. 

My ...