Lionel strolled further into the courtyard, his confidence filling the tense silence. His dark suit was immaculate, his eyes glinting with satisfaction as they darted between Damion, Kaia, and me. I froze, every nerve in my body screaming for answers as I tried to steady my breath.

“Well,” Lionel drawled, clapping his hands slowly, “it seems the little charade has reached its climax. Bravo, Damion. Bravo, Kaia. Truly, an award-winning performance.”

I turned to Damion, my heart ...