Adrian’s car moved slowly along the quieting streets. Silence thickened between them, broken only by the hum of the engine and the occasional honk from passing vehicles. Adrian glanced at Deviana from time to time, but she kept her gaze fixed on the window, wordless, watching the city lights blur past.

“Deviana…” Adrian’s voice cracked, heavy with hesitation. “I know you’re disappointed. But please, hear me out. Leviana only reached out because she’s sick. She has no one else but me.”

Deviana didn’t flinch. Her eyes remained locked on the glittering city lights, as though their glow could hide the storm inside her.

“I don’t want to know,” she replied...