The press swarmed the courthouse like hungry birds, their lenses twitching, lips whispering speculation. But Serena didn’t stay to hear it.
She stormed down the inner hallway, the echo of her heels a rhythmic war drum against marble. Her pulse was erratic. Her breathing, shallow. The case had spiraled. Cruz’s theatrics in court, the faked confusion, the crocodile tears had twisted everything. The judge had delayed any ruling pending further inquiry.
And now?
He was winning the war of perception.
The corridor leading to the West exit was quiet. Restricted. Empty.
Until she heard the click of polished shoes behind her.
“You looked tense in there, Vale.”
Serena halted.
Slowly, she turned.
Cruz stood by the wall, one hand in his pocket, the other loosening his tie like this was just a
