The flow of guests had finally slowed, the mansion gradually quieting after a long, draining day. The mourning air still hung heavy, but the formalities were over.
Victor climbed the stairs slowly, his body tired, but his mind even more so. He found Elena seated by the window in her room, arms folded tightly as she gazed at the night. Her expression was calm, but the fire in her eyes hadn't dimmed since Chloe's appearance.
"You okay?" he asked gently.
Elena turned to him. "If you're here to talk me out of anything, save it."
Victor gave a soft sigh and stepped closer. "I'm just saying… Chloe showing up with Abel changes everything. He's not someone to ignore. He's dangerous, Elena. Worse than Charles, more calculated than Chloe herself. She just upped the stakes."
"I don't care," Elena replied sharply. "She crossed a line I'll never forgive. And if she thinks teaming up with someone like Abel will stop me, she clearly forgot who she's dealing with."
