Chapter 21: Provocation

Selene’s POV

"Damien, you can't seriously believe that," I sighed, disappointment clear in my voice. "Elara says I hurt her, but look at her. No marks, no torn clothes. Do you really think I could've attacked her and left no trace?"

He hesitated, glancing between us, clearly conflicted. Elara had spun her tale, and he’d fallen for it.

"Elara’s scared, Selene," he muttered, uncertainty creeping in.

I gave a dry, sarcastic laugh. "Scared of what? I barely touched her. She’s using you, and you’re too eager to play hero to see it. Why would I hurt her now? What would I gain?"

Damien’s silence spoke volumes. I offered a faint smile, more resigned than anything. "You’ll figure it out someday." I turned and walked away, not wasting another word.

"Selene, wait!" Damien’s voice rang out behind me, sharp with urgency, but I had no intention of stopping. My patience was hanging by a thread, and I was done talking.