DIANA
“I’ll reject Axel,” I said again, but this time, my voice was calmer and firmer.
The silence in the room stretched and my heart was pounding, but I kept my face straight.
I looked at my parents, both of them were staring at me like they were unsure of what I would say next.
I could see the hope flash in my mother’s eyes while I could feel Axel’s stare burning into me. I didn’t dare look at him yet. I couldn’t.
“I’ll reject him,” I repeated, “And I’ll go home with you.”
I paused and lowered my voice. “But only if you tell me the truth.”
My mom’s face froze after she heard what I said. Her lips parted slightly like she was about to say something.
She stepped forward, but I raised my hand quickly.
“Don’t lie,” I said, my chest rising and falling faster now. “Don’t waste my tim
