Another Delay

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CHAPTER 298

~Zara's POV~

By the next evening, I had made up my mind. It was time to head back home to Snow. As much as I loved spending time with Mom, the thought of guilt-tripping myself into staying longer had become unbearable.

So I quietly began packing my belongings again, this time determined to avoid any suspicion. I moved around the room smoothly, folding my clothes and slipping my books and gifts into my suitcase quickly and neatly.

"Just don't make a sound, Zara," I whispered to myself, glancing toward the door every few seconds.

I had just zipped up the first bag when the door creaked open.

"Zara, darling!" Mum's cheerful voice rang out, making me freeze mid-motion.

I turned slowly, my heart sinking as she stepped into the room, flanked by her ever-present lady-in-waiting, Clarisse. The sight of the suitcase on the bed didn't escape her sharp eyes.