Chapter 57 - Innocence in the Shadows

Orion’s POV

I stood frozen, every excuse I’d rehearsed vanishing like smoke. Holly’s eyes were wide with concern, her soft gaze probing. Chloe, a step behind me, schooled her features into a mask of innocence.

“Uh…” I swallowed hard. “Chloe—she, um, needed help with some paperwork. For the project. Confidential, you know.”

Holly’s brow furrowed. “Paperwork? In her room?”

Chloe slid beside me, a practiced smile on her lips. “Orion’s just being thorough. We didn’t want to discuss it in the open. Too many prying eyes.” She shot me a look that sent chills down my spine.

Holly’s face softened a little, but doubt lingered. “You two always talk in riddles.” She grabbed my hand. “Anyway, I’ve got something for you and Ava. Come on.”

Relieved, I followed her to the living room, my heart hammering in my chest. Chloe trailed behind, her presence like a shadow I couldn’t shake.