Echoes of Wonderland

Believe

Chloe's POV

As I stand in the bathroom, splashing water on my face, I stare at my reflection, hoping the cool water will help clear my mind. But it doesn't. My mind is still racing.

Should I help Red? Can I even help her?

She hurt me. Left me crying in pieces without even giving me a chance to fight for us, for what we had. And then she disappeared, without a word, without any explanation. I clench my hands against the sink, trying to steady myself. I understand now why she did it. Maddox explained everything—how he linked the spell to our love, how Red was forced to choose between me and my happiness, or her. But it still hurts.

Why did she think I'd be happier without her?

She didn't even let me decide. She took the decision away from me, made the choice for me like I didn't have a say. Did she really think I'd be happier with my family, but without her? Or would I have chosen her over my family? I don't know. Maybe I would've, maybe I wouldn't. But Red knew I couldn't choose. So she chose for me, the best way she thought she could—by removing herself from the equation, by letting me have my family, and breaking my heart in the process.

Red always put me first.

Even when it meant she lost everything herself. Even when it meant destroying what we had, to make sure I was okay. She shattered herself for me. She shattered us for me. And as much as it hurts, I can't ignore that now. Red needs help. And if she's truly spiraling, trapped in her own misery and becoming the very villain she swore to never become... then I can't leave her like that.

I need to help her. I need to bring her back.

I swallow hard, feeling a lump in my throat.

As I step out of the bathroom and rejoin my friends and family, I try to push the thoughts aside and focus on the present. Yet, the weight of Maddox's revelation lingers, a painful reminder of the love that once was and the hope that maybe, just maybe, there's a chance to find healing amidst the wreckage.

I rejoin Dizzy and Celia. They're both laughing at something, but as soon as they see me approaching, their expressions change. They can sense something's off.

- Chloe? What's going on? - Dizzy asks, her voice filled with concern. Celia crosses her arms, waiting for an explanation.

I take a deep breath, knowing that what I'm about to say is going to change everything. But I can't do this alone. If I'm going to save Red, I need help—and I trust them.

- I'm going to tell you guys something. - I start, looking between them, making sure they understand how serious this is. - But you can't say anything. To anyone.

Both of them nod immediately, leaning in closer.

- We won't say a word. - Celia promises, her voice low.

I exhale shakily, then spill everything.

- It's about Red. Maddox found me just now and... he told me the truth. About what happened. About why Red left.

Their eyes widen in shock, but they stay silent, letting me explain.

- The whole thing... it wasn't just about Red leaving. You know the spell Maddox pull up? Well, he trapped her. He linked it to our love. He made her choose between saving us or... or letting me be happy with my family.

Dizzy gasps softly, her hand covering her mouth. Celia's eyes narrow as she processes the information, but she doesn't interrupt.

I keep going, the words pouring out of me.