Sophia’s pov

I picked up the phone on the third ring, still half-asleep and warm in Max’s arms. Before I could even say hello, Lucian’s mother’s voice cut through the line like a blade.

“Where are you, Sophia? Do you have any idea what time it is? Answer me right now.”

The attack was immediate. No greeting. No pause. Just pure, sharp anger.

“I’m… I’ll be back right now,” I answered quickly, voice still rough with sleep.

The call ended before I could say anything else. The silence that followed felt heavier than the scolding.

I turned to Max, already sitting up and reaching for my clothes.

“I have to...