Lionel strolled further into the courtyard, his confidence filling the tense silence. His dark suit was immaculate, his eyes glinting with satisfaction as they darted between Damion, Kaia, and me. I froze, every nerve in my body screaming for answers as I tried to steady my breath.
“Well,” Lionel drawled, clapping his hands slowly, “it seems the little charade has reached its climax. Bravo, Damion. Bravo, Kaia. Truly, an award-winning performance.”
I turned to Damion, my heart hammering in my chest. “What is he talking about? Charade? Damion, tell me this isn’t true.”
Damion’s lips parted, but no words came out. His jaw tightened, and he looked away, the silence damning.
Lionel smirked, stepping closer. “Oh, come now, Damion. Don’t leave her in suspense. She deserves to hear the truth
