From a young age, I followed the rules set for me, being the good girl and never wanting to feel the painful sting of rejection. I thought all my wishes had come true, but everything changed in an instant, and I was forced to see the harsh and ugly realities of life. I ran from everything I knew, vowing a life alone was better than living under the control of others.

My new life wasn’t perfect, but it was mine. Forged with sweat and tears, I built something I could be proud of, but I still kept people at a distance. I existed but never truly lived. The moment I saw him, I knew he was different. His haunting eyes told me he wasn’t scared of the darkness that resided within me.

He pushed through the walls I built around myself and taught me that love was real, giving me the strength to face my nightmares and step out of the darkness. The Death Hounds showed me what family was and that loyalty was valued above everything. When I decided to stop running and fight, they stood beside me, proving that family was who you chose.

But then he betrayed me and sent me back down a path of dark nightmares and into a life of silence. Now, he’s fighting for both of us, showing me that his words of devotion were true. When he discovers the secrets I’ve been carrying, will he still see me the same, or will he push me away and force me back into solitude?

Never again will I make a wish.

It may come true, but at what cost?