This Feels Real

Sera

Steam wafted from the clawfoot tub in my bathroom, fogging up the window. I stood on my toes to look out at the silvery landscape. A fresh dusting of snow covered the trees, washing everything in a bright, clear glow.

Whatever Killian and his crew were up to last night had kept everyone busy. Even Olivia, for whatever reason. She’d tumbled into my room at ten the next day with a tray of food and coffee, dark circles lining her eyes, and she was uncharacteristically quiet. When I asked what happened, she just smiled and waved me off, telling me to eat before taking her leave.

I guessed I should get used to this, being left alone and in the dark when it came to this family. The secrecy was a stark reminder that I didn’t really belong here. The Ricci family had always been an untouchable dynasty, one that my father envied and despised.

I rarely thought about my last name anymore. Here, at least lately, I was just Sera. And I was alright with that.

Three o’clock rolled around as I sa