Author's note: this chapter is from Seraphina's point of view
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"Why are you so slow?", an older lady whose back was facing me asked.
"I don't want to go with you.", I responded defiantly.
The weather was cloudy, just like my mood, and I didn't feel like this neatly-maintained neighborhood park is where I belong. There is an empty playground with swings and a seesaw and all the other good things, but it's wasted without kids present. There are either no kids in this area, or parents keep them locked in.
"I can ensure that you have a bright future.", the older lady tried to reason with me.
"I don't like you."
She cackled. "But, I like you. Keep that attitude and maybe we meet again…"
She started walking away from me, and I closed my eyes with relief that I'm not forced to go with her.
"Wake up, sleepyhead…", a male voice called, and I felt his fingers brush against my cheek.
