Nadia crossed her arms, her expression guarded. "Trust is earned, Demond. And you've shattered mine. It's not just about you lying or ignoring me. It's about the fact that you didn't believe in me, that you thought I needed you to protect me from my own life. I've grown stronger, and I've found my place in the squad. I won't be treated as second best. And why would you be jealous of Luther, you were the one who denied me. Don’t pin it on him"
Demond's face reflected the pain of his realization. "Nadia, I beg you to forgive me. I promise to change, to be the friend you deserve. I'll face my own insecurities and learn to trust you, to support you without trying to control or protect you. Please, give me a chance to make amends."
Nadia's anger softened, her gaze searching Demond's eyes for
