The mansion had changed its rhythm. Everything looked the same guards in position, polished floors, quiet luxury but beneath it… something had shifted or maybe it was just Aria. Because now, everywhere she turned Elena was there. Too close and too perfectly placed beside Rafael. It started in the dining hall. Aria had barely taken her seat when Elena walked in, effortlessly elegant, her presence filling the room like she owned it. Rafael was already there, standing near the head of the table.
Elena didn't hesitate. She walked straight to him.
"Still working through lunch?" she teased lightly, reaching up to adjust his collar as if it was the most natural thing in the world.
Aria's fingers tightened around her fork.Rafael didn't move away or didn't stop her.
"Something like that," he replied calmly.As if Aria wasn't sitting right there. Feeling something ugly twist in her chest.
Then it was the hallway.
