Sarah finally lifted her eyes, guilt softening into something almost fragile. "You're right…" she whispered. "I broke your trust first. I wanted you to have fun, to loosen up, but I should've protected you instead."
Athena crossed her arms, still wary, but the heat in her chest was fading.
"I'm sorry," Sarah said, her voice steadier now. "If you'll give me another chance, I promise… I'll be honest with you from now on. No more half-truths. No more tricks."
Athena studied her face, weighing the sincerity in her eyes. At last, she sighed and gave a small nod. "One chance, Sarah. Just one. Don't waste it."
Relief washed over Sarah, and a faint smile tugged at her lips. "Deal."
From the corner, Gina stepped in, her voice calm but firm. "Then let's keep it that way. We're stronger if we stand together… not if we keep secrets from each other."
Athena looked between them, and for the first time since arriving, she felt a flicker of what could almost pass as… sisterhood.
