53- A CONFESSION AND A REJECTION

BLAISE

I pulled Lila into the room, inadvertently pushing her with more force than intended, causing her to nearly lose her balance. With a swift motion, I closed the door behind us and turned to face her.

"What now?" she challenged, lifting her chin defiantly. Though fear flickered in her eyes, I knew Lila was never one to shy away from confrontation. "Are you planning to hit me as well? You were the one who proposed an open marriage, Bla—"

"He's my fucking brother, Lila," I interjected, frustration evident in my voice. How could she even bring that up now? "Do you understand how that looks? You get jealous at the slightest hint of another woman glancing my way, yet you expect me to remain composed when I catch you kissing my own flesh and blood? What if it had been someone else who stumbled upon you? Is that why you abruptly left the party? Tell me."

"You're free to think whatever you want," she retorted sharply, making a move to depart.

I had never in