(Alison P.O.V)\
As we slipped into the car, my hands trembled, betraying my nerves. "Do you think she was talking about Mathew?" I asked, my voice barely a whisper. The echo of Madame Zara's ominous words still haunted me.
Ella, sensing my unease, placed a comforting hand on my shoulder. "Alison, you're overthinking this. Madame Zara thrives on fear," she said, her tone gentle yet firm.
I clenched my fists, the weight of her prophecy pressing down on me. "But she was right about my financial problems. And I did decide to enter the competition because of it," I insisted, my eyes searching Ella's for reassurance.
Ethan started the car, his eyes focused on the road ahead. "Alison, financial struggles are common. Madame Zara preys on that, scaring people to exploit them. Don't let her get into your head," he said, his voice steady and reassuring.