Nyala
Alastair's grip on my wrist didn't loosen, and he continued to study me. I could feel the intensity of his gaze, but I couldn't decipher what was going on in his mind.
"You're wrong, Nyala," he finally said, his voice unexpectedly gentle. "You might be bound by certain circumstances, but that doesn't mean you have no choices at all."
I couldn't help but feel a flicker of hope at his words, but I didn't voice it. Instead, I looked away, breaking our eye contact.
"You may not see it now, but there are always ways to fight back," Alastair continued. "Sometimes, it just takes a bit of courage to seize those opportunities."
I wanted to believe him, but my past experiences had left me skeptical. I didn't reply, but my eyes met his again, seeking answers, silently asking for guidance.
