Soren and Eve finally found their way back into the grand hall, the hum of conversation wrapping around them like gently. The ballroom was alive as it was before — music swelling, laughter rippling, champagne glasses clinking. But beneath that polish of luxury, something darker simmered: whispers, side glances, unspoken curiosity.

Eve could feel it — the invisible eyes that followed them as they stepped back in. Every breath felt heavier than it should, every step echoing louder.

Serena ...