Chapter 9. A Night to Forget

2024

Amelia’s POV

The air in the room seemed thinner, strained after my outburst for Adrian to leave me alone. Now, he sat across from me, his face an impenetrable mask as he meticulously worked through the interview questions. His tone was steady, his words precise and businesslike, and I hated how insignificant it made me feel—like my outburst had barely registered, let alone rattled him.

I mirrored his energy, responding with clipped affirmations and jotting down notes when necessary. Each exchange was mechanical, our voices stripped of warmth or familiarity, as though we were nothing more than strangers forced into collaboration. Perhaps that’s all we were now—strangers who had once meant everything to each other.

Why did I let myself lose control? I thought bitterly, stealing a glance at him. Adrian remained focused, his pen gliding fluidly across the notepad. Did he think I was still hurt? That I was the same girl he’d walked away from yea