Meredith.
"Because even the strongest mask eventually cracks," Valmora answered. "We do not always see what festers beneath the surface. Maybe she believed betrayal was her last weapon—her only option left at the time."
I exhaled slowly, rubbing my temples. "Either way, she's leaving. And I can't deny it, Valmora… I feel lighter. She's been a thorn in my flesh from the very beginning. Knowing she won't be here anymore—it makes me feel like I can finally breathe."
There was a pause, then Valmora's voice, sharper this time: "Do not be too quick to celebrate. She may be gone from under this roof, but that does not mean she will cease to be an enemy. Sometimes, the threats we cannot see are the most dangerous."
I bit my lip, chewing on the truth of that. "I know. But just for now… let me be glad she's gone. Just for a little while, I want to know what it feels like to enjoy peace—even if Gary and Mabel are still here."
