Chapter 84

Althaia

My throat closed when I saw the burned building. I stepped out of the car, barely believing what I was seeing in front of me. The boutique my mother had worked so hard for was just gone.

Gone like she was. Vanished, leaving only memories behind.

“I’m so sorry, Thaia.” Michael wrapped an arm around my shoulders while I still looked at the boutique in disbelief.

“Why would they do that?” My voice was nothing, but a mere broken whisper.

“I don’t know, but I promise you I’ll find out whatever I can and let you know if something comes up. They’re all going to pay for this.” Michael promised me, but right now, it all felt like empty words to me. “Come, let’s go now.”

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“Do you want to take a walk with me on the beach? The sun is about to set, and it’s a beautiful sight to witness.” I asked Michael. He decided to keep me company for the rest of the day, even though I hadn’t said much since we came back.

He m