88. Lorenzo
I closed my eyes, forcing deep breaths, trying to steady the storm inside me. But the pain in my chest twisted like a knife, sharp and merciless.
Without thinking, I let go of Javier's hand. The moment my grip released, he was flung across the hall, his body crashing into a wooden bench. The sound of ribs snapping echoed through the silence, followed by the clatter of splintered wood. Panic rippled through the crowd; people scattered in every direction, their whispers and gasps blending into chaos.
I was furious. Not at Javier's pathetic words—no, he wasn’t worth my rage. My fury burned for Athena. She defended him. Even though I knew that she didn’t want him, that it was the cursed mating bond compelling her, the betrayal still cut deep.
The sound of a voice pulled me ba
