Chapter 54

VALERIA’S POV “Dimitri…” I managed to choke out, my voice hoarse. His grip faltered just slightly, enough to let me suck in a shallow breath. His eyes narrowed, watching me like a predator sizing up its prey. “I don’t… I don’t know what you mean,” I rasped, playing for time. My mind raced, searching for the right balance between feigned ignorance and reluctant confession. “I—I just survived. That’s all.” He didn’t loosen his grip completely, but I saw the flicker of doubt in his eyes. He didn’t know if I was lying or telling the truth, and that was my advantage. “You expect me to believe that?” he hissed, leaning in closer. His breath was hot against my face, his grip tightening again. “You’re lying to me. I can smell it.” “I’m not lying!” I gasped, my voice cracking. “I swear… I don’t understand it either. I just… survived. That’s all.” I forced myself to meet his gaze, my heart pounding in my chest. I could feel Vyara stirring in the back of my mind, ready to intervene if necessary.