Chapter 19

"Emi?" Hearing the affectionate nickname from Maya's lips was like having a dagger thrust into my chest. "It's been a long time since we last saw each other. How have you been?" She smiled, clearly excited to see me. Her acting as if nothing had happened between us only fueled the rage building in my stomach.

My brain struggled to process what was happening. It was impossible for her to be standing in front of me. But when I heard the neighing of her horse, I convinced myself that this cursed situation was real. She was here with me, tormenting me just like she did when we were teenagers. I thought my fears had disappeared, that I had conquered them. How naive I had been! I had merely covered my demons with a band-aid, blocking out the sun with a finger and closing my eyes to avoid seeing the truth.

She made an attempt to get closer, and that's when I spurred Sole to return home. I thought I heard her calling me from behind, but I didn't even turn around. My