Chapter 72

The cell and the truth.

Elara’s POV

The cold, damp air clings to my skin, and a familiar chill seeps into my bones. I’m back in the same dream again. But this time, it’s different. This time, she’s alone, sitting on the cold, dirty floor, with the heavy chains holding her down, with her eyes closed as she leans her head against the wall.

“Hi,” the woman murmurs, her voice so warm and melodic, a contrast to the frigid air of the cell. She opens her eyes and motions for me to come forward, the sound of her chains a soft jingle in the quiet.

My heart beats like a frantic drum against my ribs as I stare at the unmistakably familiar green eyes. “Your eyes...” I manage to say, the words catching in my throat.

She tilts her head, a ghost of a smile on her lips. “What about them?”

“They’re so familiar,” I breathe, taking a step closer. The air between us feels thick with unspoken things. “You’re… Kieran’s mother, aren’t you?” I dared to ask.