Hating Eva

LIVIA'S POV

“Is this true?” Tristin asked, his eyes darkening as he looked at me.

I crossed my arms, trying to maintain my composure. “She was being insubordinate. I was just putting her in her place.”

“Insubordinate?” Tristin repeated, his voice low. “You think that justifies physical violence?”

I felt a flicker of panic. “Tristin, you know how important it is to maintain discipline—”

“Enough,” he interrupted, holding up a hand. “This is not how we handle things in this company. You’ve crossed a line, Livia.”

I opened my mouth to protest, but Tristin cut me off again. “We’ll discuss this in private. Sophie, Eva, come with me.”

As they followed Tristin out, I felt a mix of anger and humiliation. How had things spiraled out of control so quickly? I needed to regain my footing, and fast.

I followed them secretly behind to eavesdrop on their conversation In the conference room, Tristin turned to face them. “Are you okay, Eva?” he asked, his voice softer.

Eva nodded, though her voice was