Vanessa’s POV
Alfie's stare bore into me, a mix of disbelief and fury swirling in his eyes. He couldn't fathom the words I had just spoken, couldn't believe I would dare to challenge him so directly.
But I didn't waver. I held his gaze with steely resolve, refusing to let him intimidate me. Evie was ready to attack whenever I wanted her to. She might be hurting, but she wouldn't mind hurting him more. I was so ready for that.
I could sense the anger radiating off him, a palpable heat that seemed to envelop us both. It was the kind of rage that threatened to consume him, to drive him to rash actions he might later regret. And yet, despite the storm brewing within him, I remained rooted in place, unyielding in my stance.
I knew Alfie well enough to anticipate his next move. He would
