The moment Thalina recognized the figure holding Vanora, her stomach twisted in disgust.
Avaris.
The same woman who had tormented her when she first arrived at the palace. The same woman who sneered at her, mocked her, and made her life hell just because of her looks.
Until Zorath had chased her out.
Now, here she was again, standing before Thalina, holding Vanora like a trophy.
Thalina swallowed the venom rising in her throat. Not tonight. Not again.
Her voice came out sharp and cold. "Please hand over my pet."
Avaris raised a brow, looking down at the small, trembling cub in her grasp. A slow, cruel smirk curled her lips. "Your pet?" She scoffed. "This little thing looks too good to be yours."
Thalina's jaw clenched. Of course, she'd still be like this.
But then—Avaris' eyes flickered, taking in Thalina's face. Her smirk faltered. Something shifted.
Jealousy.
It hit her hard.
The last time she had seen Thalina, the girl had been pretty—yes. But now?
