Steven’s voice sharpened with cruel certainty. “Do you think he would have settled for you? A quiet girl with nothing? Do you think he would have brought you into his world because he wanted you?”
Eve’s breath caught.
Camila’s voice cut in, sharp. “Don’t speak about her like she’s a bargain.”
Steven’s eyes snapped to Camila. “I’m speaking truth.”
Mitre’s voice came like thunder held back. “Truth? Or your own excuse?”
Steven’s jaw clenched. He turned back to Eve, voice thick. “You might think I’m a monster now.”
Eve whispered, almost against her will, “I do.”
The words hung in the air.
Steven went still.
For a moment, the anger in his eyes cracked, just a fraction.
Then it returned, harder. “Fine.”
His voice rose. “Fine. Call me a monster. Hate me. Throw me away. But don’t stand
