Ava's POV
Anderson's eyes searched my face, as if trying to peel back skin and bone to find the truth beneath. “I saw the news about Laura’s studio opening. In the promotions, she claimed to be Mr. Hale’s final disciple.”
Tension slipped into the air.
My chest tightened, but I refused to let it show.
Instead, I smiled lightly. “Well, that's what she wants everyone to believe.”
Without waiting for him to speak, I stepped past him, letting the conversation fall away like something insignificant.
“Leo,” I called, my voice easing for the first time. “Meet your new companion.”
The parrot tilted its head, its bright eyes watching me.
“Her name’s Storm,” I added with a low laugh. “You two need to get along.”
Leo bobbed his head, as if he understood, then hopped closer to the newcomer. He
