Ethan's words hung in the air like a challenge. I glanced across the room one more time at Rhys, who was now deep in conversation with Julian Mercer. The intensity in his posture was evident even from this distance.
"I'm leaving," I announced, standing up abruptly.
Seraphina's eyes widened. "Right now? In the middle of all... this?" She gestured vaguely toward Ethan and the direction of Rhys.
"Yes, now." I tugged Rhys's jacket tighter around me, inhaling his scent instinctively before catching myself. "I need space to think."
Debra immediately stood up. "I'm coming with you. No way am I letting you drive home alone after everything tonight."
Seraphina sighed and grabbed her purse. "Fine, let's go. But this conversation isn't over, Elara."
Ethan stepped aside but couldn't resist one final comment. "Running away won't change what's happening between you two."
I shot him a glare. "I'm not running. I'm choosing to leave."
"Same difference," he replied with an infuriating smirk.