SERAPHINA'S POV
I slipped out of Nicholas's mansion and made my way to my mother's apartment, her calls echoing in my mind. It hadn't been an easy escape, but the maid's uniform I kept for contingencies made it seamless enough.
"This is the first time you've ever broken your promise to me, Seraphina," she said, her voice trembling just enough to suggest disappointment, though I knew better than to mistake it for weakness. "Why is it so difficult to kill that girl? It shouldn't be this hard for monsters like you."
I drew in a slow breath, letting it settle before responding, careful not to let anything unsteady slip through. "I am taking revenge for my brother's death, Mother. Give me more time." The words came out controlled, measured, but my body remembered something else entirely.
