Chapter 12

Amelia

The stinging of my cheeks jolts me awake, sending a surge of fear and confusion coursing through my veins. As I glance around the room, disoriented by the abrupt awakening, I see Ember standing by the edge of the bed, her gaze ablaze with intensity. There’s no need for words; I understand immediately that she just used a slap to rouse me from my sleep.

Gingerly, I raise my hand to my swollen cheek, the ache throbbing beneath my fingertips. I meet Ember’s glare with a mixture of shock and apprehension, the weight of her hatred hanging heavy in the air between us.

“Get your fucking ass up,” she barks, her words a harsh echo in the room.

With a forceful tug, she yanks me out of bed once again, but this time, I manage to maintain my balance. I regained some of my strength as I healed during my sleep.

“Follow me,” Ember commands, her voice laced with authority as she strides towards the door.

I hesitate for a moment, uncertainty gnawing