The city skyline glittered as Lila—fully inhabiting Liora Cade—prepared for her first high-profile public appearance since the gala. Flashbulbs erupted the moment she stepped onto the red carpet, and the roar of the crowd pressed against her like a tangible weight. Every movement, every smile, every word would be scrutinized.
Lila's stomach twisted, but she straightened her shoulders. She had practiced this countless times in her mind, but the reality was far more intense. Cameras followed her as she navigated the press, answered questions with charm, and maintained Liora's confident demeanor.
And then it happened: a reporter asked a question laced with subtle provocation, hinting at a scandal from Liora's past. Lila froze for a heartbeat, then carefully deflected, steering the conversation back to a neutral topic. Her pulse raced, but she realized something vital—she could handle this. She was no longer just imitating; she was thinking, reacting, surviving as Liora Cade.