Sophia’s POV

Terror overtakes her face. I spring out of Alexander’s hold, turning to face my aunt. But words, excuses—they all elude me. She’s caught us.

My hands tremble. My heart wouldn’t stop pounding.

“S–Sophia?” She stutters, blinks, and shifts her eyes to Alexander. “W– what are you doing to her?!”

“A-aunt Mel…”

Alexander is silent beside me. I glance at him. He keeps his head down, eyes down, tracing a shaky finger on the marble counter.

“I’m calling your ...