“Adrian, stop calling me!”

Deviana’s voice trembled, yet it carried firm resolve as she answered the incoming call. Without giving Adrian a chance to respond, she pressed end call. Her breathing grew unsteady, her chest aching every time she heard that name.

The phone rang again. Adrian’s name flashed on the screen. Deviana gripped the device tightly, then slammed it onto her desk with a harsh movement.

“Enough!” she whispered to herself, eyes reddening.

From the small sofa in the corner of the studio, Lila looked at her with concern. “It’s him again?” she asked softly.

Deviana gave a short nod. “He never stops, Lila. I’ve made it clear—I don’t...