|Theodore|
I will accept the… conditions.”
Carmella’s voice sliced through the heavy silence, sudden and firm. Every head in the room turned toward her. Even Gracia, who until now had held the upper hand in presence and knowledge, appeared momentarily surprised—her brows lifting, her gaze sharpening with intrigue.
She tilted her head slightly.
“Are you certain?” she asked, her tone lighter than before, but still laced with caution. “I warned you, this is not something that can be undone once it begins.”
Without thinking, I reached for Carmella’s hand, clutching it tightly in mine. I could feel her pulse—steady, calm… but resolute.
“Carmella,” I said gently, searching her eyes. “Are you truly sure about this?”
She turned to face me, her expression softening. And then—she smiled. It
