Chapter 60 - Pretending

Ava’s POV

The next morning, sunlight spilled into the room through sheer curtains, casting long shadows that seemed to stretch across the divide between our rooms. I hadn’t slept—my mind raced, replaying every venomous word Orion had spat and every cold glare exchanged.

The soft murmur of Venice waking up outside felt worlds away from the tension that hung in this suite.

I rose, determined not to let him see any weakness. The war had begun, and every move mattered.

As I stepped out of my room, I found Orion already seated on the plush sofa, a steaming cup of espresso in his hand. He looked up, his gaze unreadable, but I could see the dark circles under his eyes. Had he slept any better than I had? I doubted it.

The stupid thing about this suite? We have to share a bathroom!

“Good morning, Ava.” His voice was clipped, a deliberate performance of civility.