Beyond the mansion's Walls

The cash in my pocket reminded me of the need to put distance between myself and the mansion. I knew Rachel was helping me, but the thought of facing Harrison again filled me with a deep, sharp dread. If I stayed, I'd never truly be free from Mr. Luca's control. With shaking hands, I booked a flight to the UK, hesitating a moment over the “Confirm” button. This was it—I was committing to an unknown future, away from the only home I’d known. Rachel had sent me enough money to start over, and I was determined to make it work. I packed my few things into a small suitcase, feeling both excited and terrified. The UK, a place I’d only seen in movies, was now my escape. I had no idea what waited for me there, but just thinking about leaving kept me going. A notification on my phone showed Rachel had sent another transfer. She'd given me enough not only to disappear but to begin again. A fresh start, far from the mansion and the dangerous games we were caught in. I felt a spark of hope rise in