Sheena remained standing in place for several seconds after Gevan left. Her breathing had not fully calmed. Her chest rose and fell, her emotions mixed between anger, exhaustion, and irritation.

She turned to the side and saw Julio standing there, his cheek slightly bruised. A clear reddish mark was visible.

“Why are you just staying quiet?” Sheena asked as she walked closer. “Does it hurt?”

Julio gave a small smile, though he was clearly holding back the pain. “A little. It’s fine.”

“Fine from where?” Sheena snorted irritably. “Come inside. I’ll treat it first.”

Without waiting for an answer, Sheena pulled Julio by the arm toward her private dressing room....