~ARIA~
“Thank you, Elena,” I said, purposely using the wrong name again. “I’ll keep that in mind.”
For a moment, her mask slipped, and I saw something raw and sharp flash in her eyes. It was clear she wasn’t used to being challenged, especially by someone she thought was beneath her.
Without another word, she turned on her heel and left, her footsteps echoing down the hallway. Lena let out a quiet sigh of relief once she was gone, her shoulders relaxing.
“Thank you, Lena,” I said, grateful for her presence. “I think I’ll be fine on my own now.”
Lena nodded, giving me a small smile before she excused herself. Finally alone, I allowed myself a moment to breathe, absorbing everything that had happened.
I stared out the window, watching as the mist settled over the forest. I could feel t
