Andria's POV
The room fell into a heavy, shared silence, one that didn't need explanation.
We were probably all thinking the same thing, but no one wanted to be the one to say it aloud first.
Mel exhaled, rubbing her palms over her face. "I'm sure Liara is under Jackson's spell. It has to wear off eventually."
I shook my head slowly. "It's more complicated than that."
Both of them turned towards me. Mel's brows were pulled tight. Becca's face was tense with something like hope…but also doubt.
I leaned back on the sofa and stared at the ceiling for a long, quiet moment before speaking.
"The more I look at this whole thing, the more I realize something." My voice was steady, although I was struggling to maintain it, because I felt weighed down and troubled.
"Yes, the mate bond is fake. And yes, Jackson is clearly manipulating her. But her actions… they aren't entirely his."
Becca blinked. "What do you mean?"
