BAPTIST POV
"You can leave now," Rain snapped, barely glancing at Mira. "The adults are about to discuss something important. Don't worry—once we're done, you can go back to trailing after Baptist like the little lapdog you've been lately."
Mira's eyes narrowed. "I beg your pardon?" she said, stepping forward, her voice like steel wrapped in silk.
"Mira—don't," I said quickly, grabbing her wrist before she could close the distance. Her pulse was racing under my fingers.
"We invited her," I said firmly, meeting Rain's glare head-on. "She stays."
"So, I guess you both decided to invite a third party," Rain said, eyeing Mira with sharp disapproval.
"Yes. Please, don't be offended," I replied quickly, trying to ease the tension. "I asked Mira to join because I think she can be of real help."
Rain's expression remained unreadable. "Can we trust her?" she asked coldly.
"What do you mean by that?" Mira snapped, her voice laced with anger.
