She didn't turn.
She didn't need to.
She already knew who stood behind her.
Her teeth sank into her bottom lip as she drew in a slow breath through her nose, then released it through her mouth. The familiar rhythm steadied her pulse just enough.
His footsteps were heavy. Measured.
Coming closer.
She turned slowly to face him.
His gaze swept over her outfit once sharp, assessing before something darker settled in his eyes. He understood. Of course he did.
He knew exactly why she was here, dressed like this.
"What are you doing here?" His voice dropped to a low whisper as he loomed over her.
She didn't step back.
Didn't look away.
Instead, she forced herself to hold his gaze, matching that intensity with everything she had.
"I was asking Beta Alberto to train me."
And for a fleeting second, she almost marveled at herself.
At her confidence.
Last night had changed something in her. She had made a decision a firm one.
