(Ruby's POV)
The letter arrived on a Tuesday.
I was in the conservatory, repotting a new orchid that my mother had brought from her studio. The plant was small, delicate, its roots white and healthy. I had just settled it into fresh bark when Mrs. MacLeod appeared in the doorway.
"There's a letter for you," she said.
I wiped my hands on my apron and took the envelope. The paper was thick, expensive. My name was written on the front in handwriting I didn't recognize.
"Who's it from?" I asked.
"I don't know. It was on the front step this morning. No return address."
I opened it.
Ruby,
I know I have no right to ask. But I need to see you. There are things I need to say. Things you need to know.
Please.
Catherine
I stared at the letter. My stepmother. The woman who had reported on me to Kai. The woman who had helped him destroy my family.
Mrs. MacLeod was watching me.
"What is it?" she asked.
"Catherine. She wants to see me."
Mrs. MacLeod's face hardened. "Don't go."
