CHAPTER THIRTY SEVEN – TAKEN TO THE CONVENT

The drive to St. Mary's Convent was long and silent. Rebecca stared out the window, watching as the familiar streets of Gilda's Bay gave way to winding country roads. Finally, after what felt like hours, the car turned onto a long, tree-lined driveway. St. Mary's Convent loomed before them, a sprawling stone building with high windows and a large cross atop its central tower. Rebecca's stomach churned with a mixture of dread and resignation as the car came to a stop. A stern-looking nun in a traditional habit was waiting for them at the entrance. She introduced herself as Sister Margaret, the Mother Superior of St. Mary's. "Welcome, Rebecca," Sister Margaret said, her voice crisp and authoritative. "I trust you understand why you're here?" Rebecca nodded, not trusting herself to speak without saying something she'd regret. "Good," Sister Margaret continued. "Follow me, and I'll show you to your room and explain our daily schedule." As they walked through the convent's echoing hal