The Unshackled Queen: Never Say Never by Gilbert Soysal

Hannah stepped out of the car, the crunch of Leaves underfoot adding to the feeling of seclusion and isolation.

She led the way to the door of the villa.

Knock, knock, knock!

The door swung open after three knocks, revealing a man in a dark suit.

Recognizing Hannah, Caleb said without preamble, “Miss Moore, our boss has been expecting you.

”

Hannah entered the living room and saw Bryson standing there, his expression inscrutable.

She c@@ked her head to one side and asked, “Where is she?”

Bryson rose from his seat and gestured for Caleb to lead the way his voice emotionless.

“She’s in the room at the end of the hall.

”

As the door swung open, Hannah’s eyes were drawn to a figure huddled on the bed, hands and feet bound tightly.

The woman’s head was down, her long hair obscuring her face.

Maryam’s eyes widened in surprise at the sight of Hannah, but her expression quickly shifted to a smile.

“Hannah, it’s been ages!”

Hannah’s eyes scanned the woman, taking in every detail.

looked exactly like

stood there without a word, a meaningful smile

stretched on,

“Mr.

can’t possibly run

no need to tie me

”

eyes narrowed, his expression

Hannah,

us,” he

“Yes, I do know.

to suggest that she knew

know everything, including what happened to our mother,” she said, her voice soft but

in the silence as she strode towards Maryam, her face hard with

they were at eye level, her hand curling around Maryam’s jaw with a

eyes blazed like daggers,

“You’re lying.

I’m an only child.

have a

know my family history better than

”

look up at Hannah, who still towered

the situation, her lips still curled

that we

be some connection

”

“Oh, really?”