Getting back her daughter

Days passed, each one filled with Alysha’s silent, stubborn resolve. She worked on the project, scribbling notes and running through data, all the while waiting, preparing. Seraphina and Neil were undoubtedly watching her every move, monitoring her progress. But she knew that any slip in her façade would mean fewer opportunities to see Sisi, fewer moments to try and reach her daughter. And so Alysha forced herself to go through the motions, pretending compliance, each day letting the Hollands believe she was slowly breaking under their control.

Then, finally, Seraphina appeared at the villa again, her face expressionless. She opened the door to reveal Sisi standing by her side, her small face lighting up at the sight of her mother.

“Mommy!” Sisi called out, running to her. Alysha’s heart melted as she crouched down, opening her arms and gathering Sisi close, savoring the warmth, the familiarity.

But Seraphina’s cold, watchful eyes reminded her that this moment was a transaction, a too