Maria stared at Mrs. Spencer, her brows furrowed in confusion. "So what do I need to do for my safety, and why would anyone want me dead?" she asked, her voice low and strained.
"Firstly," Mrs. Spencer began, her gaze intense, "you need to be careful with what you share and with whom. We don't know who your enemies are or why they're after you. Don't stay out late, and most importantly, never reveal anything you're being told here. No one must know that you're alive. If asked how you recovered, just say you woke up and found yourself on the street. Nothing more."
Maria nodded slowly, her mind racing. "Okay, ma'am. I'll do exactly as you said. But… how will I come here if I need to again?"
Mrs. Spencer's expression softened. "I'll give you a ring. Keep it hidden from everyone, but close to you at all times. If you're in danger or need to come here urgently, put the ring on your middle finger and rub it gently across your face. Help will come."
