"Friends?" Rory looked at Bree's earnest, hopeful expression.
She couldn't tell whether this girl truly wanted to befriend her… or was quietly testing something.
But one thing was clear––the news that Bree was a human female had already begun circulating among the Empire's upper ranks.
If she became close to her, her own identity might not stay hidden for long.
Yes, they were both human. But Bree was still a stranger. And Rory would never risk exposing herself for someone she didn't know.
Not now.
Not ever.
With that thought, Rory met Bree's expectant gaze and slowly shook her head.
Her voice was calm. "I don't know what you mean by this 'sense of closeness.' You've probably heard from Sylas already—he and I were once matched. I think that makes things… a bit awkward between us. So let's leave it at that. No need to become friends."
She didn't wait for Bree's reaction. Turning away, she led Vincent and the others toward the hospital.
