Lyra's POV
"Do you not?"
The question hung in the air between us like a loaded weapon. Heavy. Dangerous. I couldn't tear my gaze away from him. His eyes locked onto mine with the intensity of a hunter watching its prey decide whether to bolt.
"Dear goddess, you two despise each other." Seraphina's voice sliced through the suffocating tension.
I blinked and turned toward her. She sat frozen, staring at both of us with wide, startled eyes. Her fork hovered over her half-finished plate.
She shook her head slowly, took one final bite, then pushed away from the table. "Whatever twisted game you're playing here, count me out." She rose and smoothed her dress with deliberate movements. "I'm going to find that pool."
Benedict's smile returned instantly. That warm, paternal expression that made my flesh crawl. "I have absolutely no idea what you mean, sweetheart, but that sounds lovely."
She walked out without another glance back. The door clicked shut with finality.
