Meliza's POV
"Iza! Wait!" Ethan's voice rang out behind me, desperate and unrelenting.
But I didn't stop. I couldn't.
My heart pounded so violently in my chest that it drowned out every rational thought. The walls of Elijah's estate seemed to close around me as I ran, my mind spiraling with confusion, anger, and something else I refused to name.
I had to get away from him. Away from the scene I had just witnessed. Away from whatever this was.
But before I could reach the safety of my room, a firm grip closed around my wrist, pulling me to a halt.
"Iza, please." His voice was softer this time, pleading.
I should have yanked my hand away, pushed past him, and slammed the door in his face. But I hesitated. And that hesitation cost me.
Ethan turned me around slowly, his touch careful, as if afraid I would shatter under his fingers. When I finally forced myself to look at him, I wished I hadn't.