Chapter 9: Unraveling Bonds

Lyra's POV

The cardboard box sits innocuously on my doorstep, but I know better. My stomach churns with anger and dread as I recognize the now-familiar handwriting scrawled across the top—another "gift" from my persistent tormentor.

"Not this time," I growl, drawing my foot back. With all the pent-up frustration of the past few days, I kick the box as hard as possible. It skids across the porch, colliding with the railing with a satisfying thud.

But my moment of vindication is short-lived. The impact causes the box to burst open, spilling its contents across the wooden planks. My heart stops as I see the delicate lace and silk of expensive lingerie.

"Shit," I mutter, glancing around frantically. The last thing I need is for one of our nosy neighbors to see this and start gossiping. I imagine Mrs. Henderson's scandalized whispers spreading through the pack like wildfire.

Cheeks burning with embarrassment, I hurry to gather up the offending garments. My hands shake as I shove them back i