CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND FOUR - SHADOWS IN THE HALLS

Back in her room, Anna sank onto the narrow bed, exhaustion washing over her in waves. The events of the day played through her mind like a surreal movie - the constant scrutiny, the whispered criticisms, Freya's cold disdain. She thought of Erik, wondering if he had any idea of the hostility she was facing here. Had he known about Freya's history with him? About the complex web of relationships and expectations she was now entangled in? As the sun set outside her window, casting long shadows across the snow-covered landscape, Anna felt a deep sense of loneliness settle over her. She was an outsider here, unwanted and unwelcome. The weight of the day's experiences pressed down on her, making her eyelids heavy. Without bothering to change out of her clothes or even consider dinner, Anna curled up on the bed, pulling the thin blanket around her like a shield. As she drifted off to sleep, her last conscious thought was a desperate wish to wake up and find this had all been a terrible d