chapter 11 : The Mask of Betrayal

Clara almost dropped her phone when Elianna’s name lit up the screen.

For a heartbeat, she considered ignoring it — but that would only raise suspicion. Swallowing the panic rising in her throat, she forced herself to answer.

“Clara!” Elianna’s voice was warm, cheerful, the same as always. “I haven’t seen you in days. Why don’t you come over this evening? We’ll have wine, just like old times.”

Clara’s heart pounded. Old times — when their laughter was easy and their loyalty unquestioned. Now, the thought of sitting across from Elianna, pretending nothing was wrong, felt like standing on the edge of a blade.

“Of course,” Clara said quickly, her voice too bright. “I’d love that.”

That evening, the two women sat in Elianna’s living room, glasses of red wine in hand, a candle flickering between them. Elianna looked radiant in her ease, but beneath the calm surface her eyes were sharp, observant.

“So,” Elianna began casually, twirling her glass, “how have you been? You seem… quieter lately