CHAPTER 29

ARIA’S POV

As Elodie and Eva step into the reception, nausea churns in my stomach, threatening to overwhelm me. Despite the rising tide of unease, I force myself to maintain a air of calm. My heart pounds in my chest, a rapid rhythm betraying the turmoil within.

Every step they take closer feels like a weight pressing down on me, suffocating me with apprehension. But I swallow hard, steeling myself against the panic threatening to consume me.

As their eyes lock onto mine, I brace myself for the inevitable onslaught of humiliation. It is as though their gaze alone has the power to strip away any semblance of dignity I possess, leaving me exposed and vulnerable.

My breath catches in my throat as I anticipate their cutting words and disdainful glances. A knot forms in my stomach, tightening with each passing moment. Every fiber of my being screams to retreat, to flee from the impending humiliation. But I stand my ground, my outward composure a thin veil concealing the torrent of fear