FORESTVALE MANOR

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE: A MISSION

Mia noticed Tabitha with Ry as soon as she arrived at Ry's house, which was weirdly situated near Forestvale Manor.

Fear shot through her body like a lightning bolt, causing her to freeze in place. But then something unexpected happened: Ry and Mia formed a mental link, enabling them to share thoughts and memories telepathically. It felt like a dream, but it occurred in real life.

Mia saw his memories and Shadow Cult sessions, and she could tell he enjoyed having power over the victim.

As the connection deepened, Mia felt a mix of emotions stemming from shock at his memories, disgust at his actions, and a strange sense of understanding. She couldn't help but wonder if there was more to Ry than met the eye—if there was a reason behind his dark actions. As she delved deeper into his mind, she realized that there was a vulnerability lurking beneath his facade of power and control. The revelation of Ry's vulnerability both intrigued and terrified her, leaving her unsure of what to do next.

As she grappled with these conflicting emotions, she couldn't shake the feeling that there was a profound and mysterious connection between them, transcending her understanding. The more she uncovered about Ry's past and his motivations, the more she found herself drawn to him in a way that both thrilled and frightened her. It was as if she was caught in a web of darkness and light, unsure of which path to follow. But one thing was certain: she couldn't turn away from the enigma that was Ry, driven by a mix of curiosity and a sense of responsibility, no matter how dangerous it may be.

She dissociated from those sensations and, in a moment of understanding, made the connection between Ry and Ryan, the Shadow Cult's leader.

"Ryan's come back." Mia pondered.

The truth was right in front of her, and she knew she had to confront it head-on.

Mia knew she had to act swiftly and decisively, driven by a mix of fear and disgust. She desired vengeance on Felix and his parents, as well as the punishment of Ryan for the atrocities he had committed. She wanted to cause him pain or not.

Mia no longer wanted to be a member of the group; instead, she wanted it to disband. She was determined to overthrow Ryan and the Shadow Cult. She understood that joining the group would offer her an excellent opportunity to do so. It was now or never.

Mia's chest tightened as she became breathless and shaken by the revelation. Ryan appeared to notice the difference in her stance and, with an inquisitive face, asked Mia:

"What's wrong with you?"

She replied calmly:

"Nothing; I'm joining the circle."

Ryan replied with a smile.

"You are not going to regret it."

Mia returned the smile.

"I know I won't."

Tabitha smirked and grabbed Mia's hand, leading her into another room before she could ponder anything. Mia couldn't help but feel soothed by the gesture, even though the cult's enthusiasm remained in her veins. After all, with the bond she'd formed with Ryan, she knew she needed to be extra cautious now more than ever.