Leia glanced at him in disbelief, her fists clenched tightly at her sides. How easily he spoke of killing as if ending lives was second nature to him. The burning red in Lucien's eyes radiated a fierce fury, it made her skin prickle. He had the look of a man who was used to silencing defiance with blood.
Turning to Delia, Leia's voice trembled, though she fought to keep her emotions in check. "You sold out my identity," she said coldly, inching away from Lucien's side. "You know what happens to women in the auction house. We're sold to men."
Delia dropped her gaze, shame flooding her face. She had no words.
"I can never forgive you for this," Leia continued, "That's why you need to leave."
Tears brimmed in Leia's eyes, threatening to fall, but she refused to let them win. Her pride held them back.
"Please, Leia… don't end our friendship like this," Delia pleaded softly with desperation in her tone.
