---- Her mask of indifference was cracking.


    The divide between the Silver and De Croix factions was bing more obvious.


    The witches were splitting into two opposing sides.


    She had orchestrated Electras death through Petra.


    This "game" of a battle had always been kill or be killed.


    "Nonsense.


    Just a stroke of luck.


    She was hard to surpass," I replied with fake nonchnce.


    Pretending, Swallowing the bile in my throat.


    This society was so full of hypocrites.


    The d family, however, watched me with curiosity.


    And even a hint of admiration.


    In this world, only strength and cruelty mattered.


    I turned to stop being the center of attention.


    Petras body was already being carried away.


    I couldnt linger here alone for longsomeone from the Sole family might try to attack me from behind.


    Wait, Miss De Croix!" ---- Alessandres voice stopped me just as I was about to step down the stairs.


    He moved toward me, cutting through the tense, bloodstained, and electrified atmosphere.


    "I dont think its proper to let her leave like this," he said, looking downward And thats when I realized.


    I had used part of my dress for the illusion.


    Now, I was standing there in nothing but thin white cotton undergarments.


    "Tcan escort Miss De Croix to change," his mother suddenly offered, stepping forward.


    "No, Mother." He stopped her, stepping beside me.


    "T''ll take her myself.


    And theres no need for thepetition anymoreIve decided I want to get to know Miss Electra better." What?! I side-eyed him, barely stopping myself from gagging.


    "You didnt get so impressed that you''re actually falling for me...


    well, for Electra, did you?" Despite the veiled protests, despite earning even more hatred and jealousy, Lady Viad looked at me with interestand ultimately, she agreed.


    ---- It seemed she considered Electra a worthy candidate.


    I wasnt so sure what to think anymore.


    Alessandre led me out of the hall, and we finally walked away from the crowd and their prying eyes.


    We climbed a staircase leading to the second floor, through maze- like corridors in this massive mansion, until we entered a dimly lit room.


    The moonlight streamed through the tall windows, offering the only illumination.


    Theard the heavy thud of the door closing behind me.


    I spun aroundalert.


    I didnt trust him.


    "T wont hurt you.


    You can pick something from the closet to wear, "he said, gesturing to the side as he lit a candbra atop a dresser.


    "They''re from my mothers wardrobe." "Dont even think about getting interested in me." Twarned him immediatelywithout moving an inch.