Chapter 42

Sophia

Three years.

Three long years since the old naive Sophia died.

Three long years since this new Sophia was born who refuses to forgive and show mercy to people who don't deserve it.

Each scar on my body tells a story of survival, and each memory is a lesson learned the hard way. I am no longer the girl who trusted blindly... who believed in the inherent goodness of people. That girl died three years ago, replaced by someone far more resilient and ruthless.

Pressing the blade against the hunter's neck, I run it across his neck and push him forward as blood gushes out of his neck. Blankly, I watch his pathetic struggles as life slowly leaves his body.

Turning my head, I give Jake a curt nod before I walk back towards the main house.

Each step reminds me of the journey and transformation I've undergone.

I hear the distant crackle of burning wood and know that the "trash" has been disposed of.

In these past few years, Jake, Caleb, and Lucas have become my biggest support. They help