I could see her expression tighten, guilt now flashing clearly across her face. I wasn’t sure if it was because of what I was saying or because she knew exactly who I was referring to. The truth was staring her in the face, and she didn’t like it.
*She’s getting squirmy,* Nova purred in amusement. *Maybe she’s finally realizing she’s not the only one who can play this game.*
Before I could push the topic further, Braxton jumped in, his tone laced with irritation. “Why do you care so much about other people’s problems, Calla? You don’t know what’s really going on.”
His comment was like a slap to the face, but I didn’t flinch. I gave him a tight smile, my voice dripping with sarcasm. “I care because people deserve better. But of course, not everyone thinks that way.” I didn’t need to say more; the unspoken words hung heavy in the air.
Braxton’s jaw tightened, but he didn’t reply. His silence told me all I needed to know.
The tension stayed thick between us as we finished our meal, but Lila barely looked at me after that. I could tell she was trying to avoid my gaze, probably afraid I’d say more. I wouldn’t have minded, honestly. But there was something else gnawing at me, something that made me feel uneasy.
When we were done, Braxton offered to take me home, but I waved him off. “I’ll walk,” I said coolly. “Need the fresh air.”
Lila’s relief was obvious, though she tried to hide it behind a tight smile.
Braxton glanced between us before speaking again. “I’ll take Lila back to the packhouse, then. Be careful, Calla.”
Lila hesitated. “Braxton, you don’t need to. Calla lives closer. You should take her home.”
I narrowed my eyes at her, sensing something off. Why did she care so much about him taking me home?
*She’s hiding something,* Nova growled softly in my head. *They’re both hiding something. He’s too eager to leave with her.*
Braxton didn’t give me a chance to respond, his voice hard. “Calla can handle herself. Your place is farther, and it’s not safe at this hour. I’ll drop you off.”
I watched Lila closely as she nodded, clearly reluctant but not willing to argue further. “Alright, if you insist. Take care, Calla,” she said, throwing me an awkward smile.
I said nothing as they left, my mind racing. Something was definitely wrong, and the sinking feeling in my stomach wasn’t going away.