"Enough, Selene," Claudia snapped out of frustration.
But Selene didn't back down. She stepped forward while her gaze remained fixed on Alaric as though Claudia's words barely registered. Her voice rose, trembling but resolute, as she called out a name that made Alaric flinch somehow triggering a few memories.
"Amaris! Do you remember my name? Amaris?" Selene's words were raw and heavy with emotion. "Alaric, I—"
Before she could finish, Claudia's hand came down in a sharp, stinging slap across Selene's face. The sound echoed through the room like a c***k of thunder, stunning everyone, including Alaric, who abruptly stood up, his chair screeching against the floor.
Selene staggered slightly as her hand flew to her cheek in disbelief. Her wide eyes glistened with unshed tears, but she st
