Capítulo 44: The flicker of doubt.

Gianna lay crumpled on the floor, playing the victim effortlessly. She whimpered softly, cradling her hand as though Ava had injured her.

Dylan immediately rushed over to Gianna and pulled her up, wrapping his arm protectively around her. "Are you okay?" he asked, worry evident in his eyes.

Ava's heart sank as she watched the scene. Her hand still ached from Gianna's assault, but the pain in her chest—the emotional wound cut much deeper.

Gianna shook her head. "I came to check on her, but Ava got furious with me and pushed me." She looked up at Dylan with wide, pitiful eyes, ensuring he would see only her side of the story.

Ava's blood boiled. Her body was still weak from her own injuries, but the injustice of it all gave her a surge of energy. "Stop all this drama, and get lost," she spat.