~TIANA'S [POV]~
My chest went stiff with panic. What could I possibly say that would sound convincing in this situation? My mind raced for an answer while I fought to keep my expression neutral.
I swallowed hard before replying.
“I... I came to find Demetri,” I said, trying to keep my voice steady. “I wanted to ask him something before he left, but he was already gone when I got here.”
Lydia's gaze flicked to the desk again, then back to me. She clearly didn't believe a word I had just said.
“You came to find him, yet you're standing behind his desk? How convenient is that.”
My chest tightened, but I held my ground as the air between us grew thick with distrust.
She took a slow step closer.
“I don't trust you, red-haired girl. Not one bit. First, you came here disguised as a boy, u
