Chapter 116: Ten Seconds

Ella’s

I didn't rush my approach. I didn't raise my voice, letting the cold air hold the silence between us. I simply took one slow, deliberate step toward Mara, watching her mask of fake confidence flicker for the very first time since she had opened her mouth.

She stood there, radiating that sickening smugness, her arms crossed firmly across her chest as if she legally owned the very ground we were standing on. The imposing council hall loomed directly behind her, ...