Chapter 12

Amelia stormed into the room that had been her sanctuary for as long as she could remember. Her mother's footsteps followed, the sound growing louder with each passing moment. "Amelia, listen to me," her mother implored, her voice filled with a mix of concern and frustration. Ignoring her mother's plea, Amelia continued to pack an old animal skinned bag with hastily gathered belongings. The room was adorned with faded floral wallpaper and dusty furniture, relics of a simpler time. Amelia's hands trembled with anger as she stuffed clothes and personal items into the bag. She couldn't bear to be in this place a moment longer. "Amelia, I'm talking to you," her mother persisted, closing the door behind her with a soft click. Amelia's frustration boiled over, and she whirled around to face her mother. In her fit of rage, her claws extended, sharp and deadly. Before she could fully comprehend what had happened, she slashed her mother's face. A gasp escaped Amelia's lips as she witnessed