Chapter 7(Amy)

Amy’s POV

I can't say why the house was really quiet, but I hoped it wasn't something bad. I took my chances and stepped into the house, looking around for anything that seemed unusual.

“Ah, there she is!” My mother’s voice was bright, too bright. “Amy, come join us. We’re just about to sit down for dinner.”

I forced a smile, already feeling the weight of expectation settling on my shoulders. “I’ve got a lot of homework to catch up on,” I said, trying to keep my tone polite but firm. “I think I’ll just head upstairs.”

“Nonsense,” my mother replied, her smile never faltering. “You can do your homework later. Come and have dinner with us.”

Before I could argue further, my dad’s voice cut through the tension. “Let her go, Helena,” he said, his tone gentle but authoritative. “If Amy says she has work to do, let her be.”

My mother hesitated, her eyes narrowing slightly as she looked at me, but she finally nodded. “Fine. But don’t stay up too late, Amy.”

“Thanks, Dad,” I said, flashing him