Looming Threats.

Evelina's mind was still racing as she walked down the hallway, her thoughts tangled in the aftermath of her confrontation with Leone. Just who does he think he is? she thought bitterly, feeling a surge of frustration. I can't work with him, forget his handsome face… he—her thoughts halted abruptly, and she froze mid-step.

The memory of Leonora's words resurfaced like a shadow in her mind, "He wasn't always like this."

The words echoed in her head, pulling at a part of her that wasn't entirely ready to let go of the man behind the mask.

She sucked in a breath, trying to steady herself, and exhaled slowly, attempting to push the wave of emotions aside.

She turned around, her gaze falling toward the door she had just exited. Should I go back and have a calm discussion...? The thought lingered, but she quickly shook it off, feeling the sting of her pride. No. Not now. Not after what he said.