#Chapter 122: Priorities

Ella POV I stepped out of the car, and the expression on my mother’s face hardened instantly. She looked angry—furious, even—and I couldn’t imagine what I’d done to deserve it. My mind raced as I walked toward her, trying to figure out the reason for her mood. Then it struck me. My stomach dropped as I realized the truth: I had gone straight from my doctor’s appointment to the capital without saying a word to my parents. “It’s nice to see that you’re still alive and well,” my mother said sarcastically, crossing her arms. “You didn’t check in. I suppose you had different priorities?” Guilt hit me like a wave as I considered everything that had happened recently—kidnappings, druggings, endless danger. My mother must have been worried sick when I didn’t come home. Yet... she hadn’t called or texted me? “I’m sorry I forgot to check in,” I said uncertainly, grasping for an excuse. “Something must be wrong with my phone. None of your calls came through.” “I