Chapter 11 - Hidden Agendas

Liam approached Aria during lunch in the cafeteria, his nerves on edge.

"Aria, can we talk?" Liam asked, his voice low and urgent.

Aria looked up from her novel, raising an eyebrow.

"Oh, joy. What's Julian's latest drama?" Aria said, her tone dripping with sarcasm.

Liam took a deep breath, patient.

"It's not just about Julian," Liam said, his eyes locking onto Aria's.

Aria's expression remained skeptical.

"Try me," Aria said, her voice laced with amusement.

Liam's voice was calm, determined.

"Julian's return...it's brought up old memories," Liam began.

"Alex's death...I've been thinking a lot about it," Liam continued.

Aria's sarcasm began to fade, replaced by curiosity.

"What about Alex?" Aria asked, her voice softer.

Liam's words spilled out.

"I've been thinking...what if it wasn't an accident?" Liam said.

"What if someone deliberately hurt him?" Liam added.

Aria's expression shifted, concern etched on her face.

"Liam, that's a serious accusation," Aria said.

"What makes you think that?" Aria asked.

Liam's eyes scanned the cafeteria, ensuring they were alone.

"My father's reaction, the way he's been acting...," Liam said.

"He's been hiding something," Liam continued.

"And Julian's obsession...it's not just about me," Liam said.

Aria's brow furrowed.

"You think Julian's involved?" Aria asked.

Liam's nod was almost imperceptible.

"I don't know, but I need to find out," Liam said.

Aria's expression transformed, empathy and concern etched on her face.

"Liam, I'm sorry," Aria said.

"I had no idea," Aria continued.

Liam's relief was palpable.

"Thank you for listening," Liam said.

Aria's hand found Liam's, her touch sparking electricity.

"We'll figure it out together," Aria said.

Liam's heart swelled.

"Aria, I've liked you for a while now," Liam said.

His voice barely above a whisper.

Aria's smile softened.

"I've liked you too, Liam," Aria replied.

Their eyes locked, the tension between them palpable.

Liam's lips met Aria's in a passionate, all-consuming kiss.

Their lips moved in sync, the world around them melting away.

Aria's hands wrapped around Liam's neck, pulling him deeper.

Liam's arms encircled Aria's waist, holding her close.

Their kiss was a declaration of trust, of loyalty.

A promise to face the unknown together.

As they broke apart, gasping for air, Aria's eyes shone.

"I'm with you, Liam," Aria said.

"Through everything," Aria added.

Liam's smile was radiant.

"I'm with you too, Aria," Liam replied.

---

Scene Shift: Julian's Thoughts

Julian watched Liam and Aria from afar, her eyes blazing.

They think they can be happy together?

Not while I'm still breathing.

My mother's plan is already in motion.

Liam will soon be mine.

And Aria will be left in the dust.

Julian's smile twisted into determination.

I'll stop at nothing to claim Liam.

And secure my family's legacy.