Mara, who had stood nearby throughout the entire interaction, was left stunned into silence by the kind of people Elka's parents truly were. Cruel, ruthless, and utterly indifferent to their daughter's well-being, they seemed incapable of caring for anyone but themselves. She could hardly comprehend the audacity they possessed, the sheer gall to harass Elka so relentlessly, even now. The thought alone made her stomach churn.
Gently, Mara placed a comforting hand on Elka's shoulder and guided her toward a nearby chair. She helped her sit before remaining at her side, her expression dark with disbelief and anger.
"They don't care what happens to me," Elka continued, still in shock. Her voice cracked beneath the weight of years of hurt and disappointment. "They never did. I'm not their daughter to them. I'm just another tool. And if I'm no longer useful..." She was struggling to control her emotions. "They'll burn my life to the ground to save themselves."
