Estelle's mind raced as she moved further into the room, the soft hum of the air conditioner brushing against her skin.
How much of their conversation had he heard? Had he seen Magnus at her door? Did he already know about the surgery? About the secret she was meant to keep?
Roman's gaze didn't leave her. There was something in his eyes now. Something sharper, searching, and a quiet ache settled in her chest. Slowly, he dropped his phone onto the bed and rose to his feet.
"Where were you?" he asked, his voice low, almost too calm.
Estelle's heart thudded hard against her ribs. "I was—"
"Don't even think about lying to me." His words cut in smoothly, but the edge beneath them was unmistakable. "I know you weren't in the house."
She swallowed, her fingers curling slightly against the armrest. Think. "I don't owe you an explanation, Roman," she said, forcing steadiness into her tone. "I'm free to do whatever I want as long as the cameras aren't rolling."
