Novels by MARY JUDY

Elara's povJust as I lifted the knife, a firm hand grabbed my arm, distracting me from my thoughts. I gasped as the knife fell from my hand and clattered to the floor. I turned and saw a figure standing there, his face filled with concern. “Hey! Stop,” he said, his voice soothing but steady. A man in his late twenties, wearing a plain white chef's coat that fit his strong build. His bright eyes gleamed with deep concern.At that moment, a mixture of gratitude and disappointment washed over me. Without hesitation, he guided me away from the countertop, picked up the knife, and placed it back in its place. He didn’t ask me questions; instead, he understood that silence was what I needed. He placed his hand on my shoulder and guided me to a chair nearby. “Just breathe,” he suggested softly. I tried to focus on my breath, but the tears that wanted to escape my eyes wouldn't let me. He knelt before me, his gentle taps on my shoulder reassuring as he waited patiently fo

Elara's pov“Change into this,” he ordered, dropping a neatly folded dress on the bed.With that, he turned sharply and left, slamming the door behind him.I hesitated for a moment before picking up the dress. It was made with satin, sleek black in color.It was short and fitted, hugging my body perfectly.The neckline dipped just enough, making me feel exposed, and a small white apron completed the outfit. It wasn’t just any cloth—it was a uniform, proof that I'd been bought.A few moments after I had slipped into the dress, the man returned.“Follow me,” he ordered.I clutched the apron tightly, followinghim closely as he led me through the hallways. The distant sound of laughter and music grew louder until we arrived at a large luxurious room.The scene was overwhelming. A glittering chandelier was hanging at the high ceiling, casting a glittering golden glow over the crowd of wealthy guests. Men in sharp suits and women in gorgeous gowns mingled happily in the room, enjoying th

Elara's pov“No!” “Please!” I exclaimed, trying to free my hand from the man's grip, but it felt so strong. I dipped my toes firmly on the floor with every ounce of strength in me, dragging myself out of his grip.Just as I had freed myself, I ran back to where my father was. I wouldn't dare go so close to him so I stood beside him. He glared at me like I was a ticking time bomb that would ruin everything.The man stepped closer to me, but as he drew nearer to me, I backed away, taking a step backward for every step he took forward, but there was nowhere to run to, he caught me in his grip again, and turned me toward someone else—the boss who had spoken with my father earlier.He stepped closer, and I almost peed on my underwear. I had almost fainted when he reached for something in his pocket–a barrel.“Remind me,” his voice soft and mocking. “What’s your name again?”I hesitated, my throat tightened with fear. “Elara,” I managed to whisper.“Elara,” he repeated slowly, as if tasting

Elara's pov The cup slipped from my hand, shattering on the floor. My father's glare burned through me, his voice sharp.“You useless thing,” he thundered. “You can't even hold a cup?”My heart sank in despair, my eyes teary as I bent down to pick up the broken pieces.Something in me kept resisting my calmness. “Ask,” my thoughts kept urging.I stood up, my hands shaking slightly. “Why do you hate me this much?” I demanded, my voice cracking.“Why can't I be treated like a human, at least?” I added as tears rolled down my cheeks.He scoffed. “You don't know? Well, I'll tell you,” he said, moving closer to me, his face twisted in anger.“You're a symbol of betrayal. You remind me of her,” he spat in my face.“Destructive. Selfish. Ungrateful. Just like your stupid mother,” he added.“I'm not her! Stop tormenting me because of what she did!” I screamed as tears streamed down my cheeks.He leaned his face toward mine, looking straight into my eyes, and my chest tightened.“Someone has