Nathan Lockwood gave Zoe Pierce a deep look and, under her piercing gaze, said, "No."
Zoe Pierce froze for a second, then immediately shot Nathan Lockwood a look of disbelief. "You promised."
'He's still denying it, even now?'
Nathan Lockwood said, "What I said was: make a deal."
"You cooperate with us to complete the league, and I'll give you news about Damien Pierce."
He had never actually had to criticize her.
Zoe Pierce almost laughed out of sheer anger. 'So now he's twisting the truth.'
As if sensing her skepticism, Nathan Lockwood added, "You've always performed exceptionally well."
'We were the ones who schemed.'
"But now, you don't have to be so perfect," Nathan Lockwood said suddenly, his eyes on Zoe Pierce. "You can rely on us sometimes."
Zoe Pierce slowed her pace. "Is that right?"
Nathan Lockwood closed the small distance between their shoulders. "It doesn't matter who it is—any of us. As long as they can make you happy, that's all that matters."
