Chapter 67

Taking a deep breath, I stepped inside, the scent of home mingling with my growing apprehension. My stepmother, a woman who had always kept her distance, greeted me with a warm smile. It felt alien, her sudden change in demeanor. Suspicion flickered within me, mingling with the weariness that had settled in my bones.

"Alondra, my dear," she said, her voice unusually gentle. "How was your day?"

I stared at her, studying her features for any signs of deceit. But her expression remained open, her eyes filled with a tenderness I had never seen before. A shiver ran down my spine, and I couldn't help but wonder what had brought about this unexpected shift.

"It was... eventful," I replied cautiously, my voice betraying my unease. "I have a lot on my mind."

She nodded, her smile unwavering. "I understand. Take your time. And remember, I'm here if you need someone to talk to."

Her words were laced with an underlying sweetness, a concern that had never before surfaced. It left me feeling both g