Chapter 44: chapter 44

I felt a shiver run down my spine as Damian's eyes locked onto mine. "You can't just walk away, Emily," he said, his voice low and urgent. "You're involved, whether you like it or not."

I tried to sound calm, but my heart was racing. "I thought I made it clear, Damian. I'm out of this. I won't get involved again."

Damian stepped closer, his expression intense. "You don't understand, Emily. The Shadowhand Clan is more powerful than we thought. They'll stop at nothing to achieve their goals."

Sofia appeared beside me, concern etched on her face. "¿Todo bien, Emily?" (Is everything okay?)

I hesitated, unsure how much to reveal. "It's fine, Sofia. Just an old friend."

But Sofia's eyes narrowed. "An old friend who looks like he's hiding something."

I shot Damian a warning glance, but he ignored it.

"What do you want, Damian?" I asked, trying to keep my tone neutral.