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39: A Legacy of Lies

Author: Pann Ludovica
last update Last Updated: 2025-02-01 00:30:38

POV: Beatrice

Ryuu returned alone, a smug smile tugging at his lips. It was unsettling, that rare flicker of amusement where his usual scowl should be.

"Where’s Dario?" I asked, watching him closely. His grin deepened, a silent taunt.

"He decided to skip breakfast." He settled across from me, lifting his coffee cup with infuriating ease. His collar was slightly wrinkled, a faint bruise darkened his jaw. Whatever had happened between them hadn’t been civil.

"I bet he did," I muttered, sipping my tea. The lie was pointless. Something had gone down, but Ryuu wouldn’t admit it. And Dario? He wasn’t the type to back down easily.

Silence stretched between us, heavier than usual. Ryuu barely touched his food, eating out of obligation rather than need. I picked at my granola, tension knotting in my stomach.

"How long was Espósito here last night?"

Ryuu exhaled sharply, already irritated. "I don’t know, and I don’t care. He’s gone. That’s what matters."

"For now." I watched him carefully, kno
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