My mother stood up and took my hands in hers.

“The important thing is that you’re safe, Sioni. You’re all right. As long as you’re up here, no harm will come to you.”

“But if I never cut my hair, I should be fine, right?”

“That’s what the witch told us.”

“Then I don’t need to be locked up in a tower to be safe. I will just keep my hair long. Like I always have.”

Mom shook her head emphatically. “No, dear. It’s too dangerous. For now, I think it’s best that you stay right here, where you’re safe.”

I sat down at the table, poking the congealed piece of chicken on my plate. Suddenly, I wasn’t hungry anymore.

My mother plumped my pillows, organized the room a bit and then kissed me on the cheek. “I’m glad we had this talk, Sioni. It didn’t feel right, you not knowing. I know your father will agree with me. Have a good night, dear.”

I mumbled a reply.

Before she left she said, “One more thing: under no circumstances are you to speak to anyone, young lady. And I want this window locked at all times.”