The chandelier glittered above her, an opulent constellation of lights that seemed too bright—too intrusive—for the thick darkness nesting inside her chest. Every sparkle mocked her silence. Every corner of the room screamed of wealth, marble floors that echoed every thought too loud, velvet drapes heavy with secrets, golden accents that adorned the walls like chains dressed as luxury.

Inaaya sat at the edge of the bed, feet barely touching the floor. The lock on the door behind her was turned just moments ago, but it felt like the only barrier between her and a world she no longer recognized. Her arms wrapped tightly around herself, her body folding inward like she was trying to protect the fragile parts of her soul that hadn’t shattered yet.