The World She Hid From Him
The room felt too still, like the air itself was holding its breath. Anna leaned closer, her hand still in Victor's, her voice trembling even though she tried so hard to steady it.
"Victor," she whispered again, her eyes locked on his, "listen carefully… because every word I speak now could mean the difference between life and death. Everything you know about us, about this world, about your family… it's about to change. You must understand… before you act."
Victor drew a slow breath through his nose. His shoulders eased, not relaxed, but controlled—he carved out just enough calm inside himself to stay sharp. His pulse beat fast, but his expression held that quiet, unflinching stillness he'd learned to cultivate. "Mother… I am listening. Please. Tell me."
