Lila’s POV
Lior takes a slow step toward me, his gaze steady, unreadable.
My heart jolts.
What’s he doing here? Why does he keep showing up in all of my ugly moments—like some cruel reminder that he’s always there to witness me fall apart?
A soft scoff escapes Claudia’s lips. She folds her arms, her head tilting as she lets out a mock sigh.
“Well, look at that,” she murmurs, her tone dripping with sugar and venom. “Here comes the prince in shining armor.”
The way she says it—slow, low, and edged with mockery—makes my stomach twist. Then, she tilts her head to the side, giving me a sideways glance, her eyes glittering like sharpened glass.
“But for how long, Lila?” she asks, her voice honey-sweet, almost tender. “How long do you think he’s going to keep protecting you? Providing for
