Chapter Eight

Aidan hesitated, his silence speaking volumes. Just as he was about to speak, Amira interjected, her voice tense with emotion. “Aunt, don't ask him that. You know he hates even hearing Karina's name. I'm certain he feels nothing for her. His heart belongs to me," she asserted, stealing anxious glances at Aidan.

Xander couldn't resist a taunt. “Hey, Amira, you could have let Aidan answer instead of assuming he'd explode."

Amira snapped at Xander, her frustration evident. “Shut up. Don't provoke me with your nonsense!" She turned to Cruzita with a pleading look. "Please, Aunt, ask your nephew to show some restraint.”

Cruzita nodded and shot a stern look at Xander before stepping away from Aidan. “I wish I had been at that party. I would have put Karina in her place," she declared, her voice filled with disdain.

“To heck with your bitterness," Grandma Lila scoffed, her voice tinged with emotion as she thought of Karina. “She's back. I hope I can see her again."

“I hope she stays out