chapter

Mara's Pov

As Rhys held me close, a nagging thought resurfaced. A memory I'd suppressed.

The childhood picture I'd seen in Rhys's study, tucked away in an album.

Young Rhys, smiling brightly. Alone in the photo.

I couldn't shake off the feeling. That boy's face seemed Familiar. My mind racing, I pulled back.

I hesitated a bit before speaking, "Rhys, I need to ask you something." I said.

Rhys's expression turned curious. "Mara, what is it?" he asked.

"I saw your childhood picture," I began. "The one...I don't know, it seemed familiar."

Rhys' eyes narrowed. "Familiar?" he repeated.

I nodded. "Yes...I could swear I've seen that young boy somewhere," I said.

Rhys' face faltered. "Mara, I'm sure we didn't meet when I was much younger," he said softly. "Just me."

My confusion deepened. "But I could swear...," I trailed off.

Rhys' eyes locked onto mine. "What is the problem Mara?" he asked.

"I don't know, Rhys. It's like my mind is playing some tricks on me," I said to him.

Rhys' expression