Adelaide.

A life of happiness was never meant for me.

The sun beats down on my back as I stare at the stalks of grass swaying in the gentle wind. I am on my knees again.

My heart palpitates with pain and anguish as the sun stares back. Hot, burning, almighty in the face of an insignificant speck of dust like me.

“Lady Adelaide.”

I raise my head to look at the servant approaching me. She has dark hair and she stares at me with sad eyes.

“Lord Lyros is back. He’s released you from your punishment.”

My eyes widen and hot relief pours through my heart. I bolt off the floor and run across the field toward the manor. The grass tears at the skin on my leg and the sun sends wave after wave of heat chasing after me but I don't care.

I have to see him….. I have to apologize.

Tears stream down my cheeks because Lyros saved me.

He saved me from my abusive father. From my pack that never appreciated me. From men who wanted to rape me. From a mother who would have watched me die if she could.

Lyros saved me