Jasmin's POV
The morning sunlight streamed through the towering academy windows, casting golden patterns across the stone corridors. My shoulders burned from carrying the heavy box pressed against my chest, but the discomfort felt like victory.
Freedom at last.
After what seemed like an eternity trapped in that suffocating interrogation room, I was no longer a suspect. No longer confined to that sterile prison they called temporary quarters. Sure, it had a private bathroom and a decent view, but those four walls had felt more like a tomb than shelter.
Now I could finally return to my sanctuary.
My real room.
I shouldered the door open and stepped inside, immediately greeted by the comforting aroma of fresh linens and the faint pine scent from my soap. Everything remained untouched - my bed still perfectly made with the charcoal blanket folded precisely at the foot.
I breathed deeply, a genuine smile tugging at my lips. This was home. The only real home I had ever known.
