Chapter 13

Sophia watched Dominic's car until it disappeared around the corner, then turned her attention back to Camelia, who was now looking directly at her. She squared her shoulders and walked toward the porch, her steps measured and deliberate.

As she approached, Camelia’s expression shifted from curiosity to a sly smile. “Sophia, there you are. I’ve been waiting for you.”

“What are you doing here, Camelia?” Sophia asked, keeping her voice steady.

Camelia’s smile widened. “I just wanted to talk. There’s so much going on, and I thought we should clear the air.”

Sophia raised an eyebrow. “Clear the air? About what?”

“Oh, you know, all the recent excitement. Your sudden rise to fame, your new... relationship,” Camelia said, her tone dripping with insincerity.

Sophia clenched her fists, her patience wearing thin. “If you have something to say, Camelia, just say it.”

“Oh, so now you have the boldness to talk back to me?” Camelia said, moving closer to Sophia, her eyes glinting with malice.

“Wha