Ava’s POV
I pressed my hand to my throat, the bruises already searing like a brand, and pushed myself to my feet. My entire body trembled, not from fear anymore—but from anger. A rage so deep I could taste it.
This wasn’t going to be my life.
I wiped my face with the back of my hand, turned sharply, and pulled the bell cord. It wasn’t long before a hesitant knock tapped against the door. I straightened my back as much as I could, ignoring the sting as I forced out a steady voice.
“Come in.”
The door creaked open, and Maria, one of the younger maids, stepped in, her eyes darting around the room. Her gaze landed on the shattered vase on the floor before snapping back to me.
“Miss Ava? Are you… alright?” Her voice was quiet, but I could hear the edge of concern.
I nodded curtly, keeping my voice sharp. “Clean this up. And have Orion’s things moved back into the room he used to share with Chloe.”
Maria blinked at me, clearly startled. “Sir Orion’s—?”