I strain my ears, desperate to catch every word, but suddenly, their voices blur into a muffled hum, leaving me in a silence that feels too thick, too ominous. My heart pounds against my chest as I press my ear closer to the door, hoping, praying to the Moon Goddess that I can uncover more of the truth. But before I can make sense of it, Frez’s voice breaks through the quiet, startling me. “It’s Gria, right?!” His tone is far too cheerful, like he’s discussing a family reunion instead of… whatever this is. My chest tightens with dread. Why does he sound so pleased? Gria’s response comes sharp, dripping with disbelief. “Frez, were you in on this?” I hold my breath, listening to the accusation hanging in the air, my mind reeling with the possibilities. But then, Frez laughs—a sound that g

