Aria's voice wavered as she shut the door behind me, her eyes darting across the darkened room. "You shouldn't be here," she said.
I spoke steadily while crossing my arms. "You shouldn't either. However, here we are.
She glanced away, flinching as the guilt flashed across her face. Even though Aria always exuded grace, she appeared worn out tonight, as if the consequences of her decisions had finally caught up with her.
Her tone was brittle but sharp as she said, "Ava, I don't have time for this." "You must depart before—"
"Before Victor arrives?" I stepped closer and interrupted. "Or before you have to confront your actions?"
She turned to me, her back tightening and her jaw clenching. "You have no idea what you're discussing."
"Don't I?" I posed a challenge. "I am aware that you co
