Too stunned to speak, I watched Vera walk out of the room in burning anger.

Lief's mind links me to stay calm, and I resume my meal. I could only imagine what was going through Lyra’s mind, but she didn’t say a word throughout. She ate her meal in silence and asked to be excused, which I quietly agreed to.

LYRA’S POV

My entire body was shaking so badly, I needed to find a quiet place to let out my scream.

Why wouldn’t Vera just leave me alone?

“That bitch.” I turned to see Nessa ...