Chapter 26

When Ryder scolded Astrid for calling me a derogatory term, I half-expected him to ostracize my stepsister. But to my surprise, Ryder merely asked Astrid to apologize to me.

Astrid wasted no time in offering her apology, dropping to her knees with an apparent display of contrition. I couldn't help but roll my eyes at the insincerity of her actions, though Ryder seemed to buy into the whole act.

A heavy sigh escaped my lips as Ryder suggested he should help in the kitchen, much to Astrid's delight. Disappointed, I shook my head before deciding to leave them to it. I needed some fresh air to clear my head, so I made my way out to the garden.

Sitting on the swing, I understood why Aurora enjoyed spending time here. The creak of the swing was oddly comforting as I leaned back and closed my eyes, the cold, fresh air lulling me into a peaceful slumber.

When I awoke, I felt rejuvenated. Stretching my limbs, I pondered my predicament. Ryder hadn't come looking for m