Chapter 42

Maxine's POV

“What’s your story? Why did you come here? What do you want in life?”

I sighed, thinking about how to answer. “I came here because… well, I didn’t have much choice. My father forcefully brought me here, and I’ve been trying to survive ever since. You know my story.”

Kris nodded, understanding in his eyes. “And what do you want in life? What’s your dream?”

I looked down, feeling a lump form in my throat. “Honestly, I don’t know. I used to think about finding my mate and living my life with him and our family. But now, it feels like that’s just a distant dream.”

Kris’s expression softened. “You are a good person, Maxine. Don’t let anyone take that away from you.”

I smiled weakly. “Thank you, Kris. That means a lot.”

He looked at me thoughtfully. “You know, sometimes it helps to talk about it. How is this place? Does it fit into your dreams?”

I thought for a moment, remembering how my life was dominated by fe