Emily’s POV My heart pounded against my chest, trapped between Jason’s piercing gaze, Lucas’s intense scrutiny, and the radiant smile of Aurora. How was I going to explain yet another visit to Jason’s study? In the suffocating silence, desperation clouded my thoughts, leaving me grasping for an escape. And then, without a second thought, I acted on impulse. Falling to the floor, I feigned unconsciousness, hoping desperately that my impulsive decision would buy me some time. As I lay there, pretending to be out cold, a silent prayer escaped my lips, pleading for divine intervention to extricate me from this mess. Strong arms hoisted me up, and I was gently deposited onto a nearby chair. Should I risk opening my eyes? The uncertainty gnawed at me as I hesitated, uncertain of what awaited

