Bianca’s Point of View When I finally get back to my room, my mother and Emily are already there, waiting for me exactly as planned. To anyone watching, it looks normal. Just two women helping another prepare for the upcoming festival, but I know the truth. This is not just preparation, this is an escape. The moment the door closes behind me, my chest tightens again. For a second, I just stand there, because leaving suddenly feels real. Not like a desperate thought, not like a fantasy. It's real. I am actually going to leave this place. I am going to cross that border and I may never see this place again. I may never see my mother or Emily again. My heart twists painfully but before I can do or say anything my mother speaks. “Okay, we don't have a lot of time, so listen carefully.” My mother says quietly, her voice firm but controlled and I nod my head. She is putting on a good show, but I can see it. The slight tremble in her fingers, the way she keeps glancing towards
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