She retreats without another word.
I finish cleaning in silence, my movements mechanical. Wipe down the counter. Rinse the cloth. Everything back in its proper place, like nothing happened.
My bedroom door clicks shut behind me, and I finally let myself breathe. I collapse onto my bed, pressing my face into the pillow to muffle the sob that tears from my throat.
The phone screen blurs through my tears. I blink them away, fingers shaking as I pull up Mira’s contact.
I stare at my phone, thumb hovering over Mira’s name. My cheek still burns. The pillowcase beneath my face is damp.
Me:You still up?
Three dots appear immediately.
Mira:Of course. What’s wrong?
Me:Nothing. Just excited about tomorrow.
Mira:Cora...
Me:I mean it. I can’t wait to get out of this house.
The dots pulse for longer this time.
Mira:I’ve been thinking. We should reconsider.
My stomach drops.
Me:We signed the contract. No backing out now.
Mira:There has to be a clause. Something. I looked into these guys more, and I’m not sure this is?—
Me:Not sure what? I can handle it?
Mira:Not what I said.
Me:Then what?
Mira:These men aren’t playing games. The Hunt is real. Dark. People get hurt.
I sit up, wiping my face with my sleeve.
Me:Good. I want something real for once in my life.
Mira:Real doesn’t mean safe.
Me:Safe is overrated.
Mira:Your dad would lose his mind if he knew.
A laugh bubbles up, sharp and bitter.
Me:Perfect. One more reason to do it.
Mira:This isn’t about rebelling against your father.
Me:Isn’t it, though?
The dots appear and disappear three times before her response comes through.
