Heera's smile faltered, her confidence shaken as Ethan's rejection echoed in her mind.
She had expected resistance, maybe a bit of playful banter, but Ethan's words had been cold and final.
His glance toward Selene hadn't gone unnoticed either. Heera's sharp instincts picked up on it immediately.
'So, that's how it is…'
A bitter taste filled her mouth as she realized Ethan's heart was already set.
He wasn't interested in her. He never would be.
His loyalty, his devotion—everything—was focused on Selene.
Jealousy flared in Heera's chest, dark and consuming.
'What if Selene wasn't in the picture?'
The thought came unbidden, and for a moment, Heera's mind wandered to dangerous places.
She could hire someone. Accidents happened all the time.
But before the thought could take root, a chill ran down her spine.
When Heera glanced up, her blood froze. Ethan was looking at her.
No words were spoken, but the warning in his eyes was clear.
'Don't.'
