The tension in the room was thick. Kessler's gaze hardened further, his features tightening with hurt. Silence swept over the room as we stood locked in a battle of wills.

Sasha was furious at the mention of rejection. I didn't give a damn about Sasha or anyone at this time. I was hell-bent on ending this cycle with Kessler once and for all.

With a menacing anger in his voice, he said, "You will not dare."

"Hahaha, very funny," I retorted with a glint of mischief. But before I could finish my sentence, I declared, "I, Lyra Bash, reject you, Kessler…"

Before I could finish the word, he rushed to...