MISSING JEWEL

The air in the room was suffocating. The moment Mother Olga and the governess left, the weight of everything that had happened came crashing down on me.

I had let my anger win again and it almost cost me the life of someone I cared about.

Karena was curled against Karmen, her frail body trembling from exhaustion and grief. The baby was to be hidden away by all means, but for how long? Fear clawed at my insides, but the rage I felt was stronger.

I couldn't stand to be in this room any longer. Seeing the affection and loving side of Karena with Karmen made me feel betrayed.

I turned sharply and stormed toward the door, my hands balled into fists. I needed to breathe. I needed to be away from them by all means.

"Marcella, wait!"

Karmen's voice sliced through the thick tension, but I didn't stop. Not until I was outside, where the cool night air hit my face.

I took a shuddering breath, my heart still hammering against my ribs.