Chapter 14

Leona's POV When I woke up the next morning, sunlight streamed into my bedroom. Everything felt unreal, as if the night before had been nothing but a nightmare. Alcohol, fangs, screams, killers… And Aunt Elise’s arms pulled me from the darkness, so I did the only thing I should do: I went to Aunt Elise and hugged her tightly. She froze, startled, still holding a wooden spoon. I could feel her stiffen, seemingly unsure how to react to my tight embrace. “Aunt Elise,” I whispered against her shoulder, “even if I’m not your biological family…even if we both have secrets…I will always be grateful for taking me in. And last night,” my voice choked, “you saved my life. I will never forget it.” I could feel her forget to breathe for a moment, then she gently pried my hands away, maintaining her usual deliberate distance. “Have breakfast and go to school.” Standing at the school gate, I took a deep breath. The cold morning air filled my lungs, more biting than usual. I struggled to steady my tr