Illyana’s POV
Back at the villa, the opulent silence pressed in on me, amplifying the turmoil within. I wandered through the echoing rooms, the plush carpets and elegant furnishings offering no comfort. I found myself drawn to the French doors leading out to the terrace, the cool night air a welcome balm against the fevered thoughts that raced through my mind. I replayed my conversation with Cole, his words, his expressions, searching for any hint of deception, any lingering trace of Luke’s influence. Aurora’s betrayal had sharpened my instincts, honed them to a razor’s edge, making me hyper-vigilant, wary of trusting anyone connected to my past.
Despite my reservations, a stubborn ember of hope flickered deep inside me. Cole’s remorse had seemed genuine, his desire to make amends palpab
