Chapter 12. Into the Deep

Victoria’s POV

The breeze had shifted, carrying a sharp chill that bit into my skin. The setting sun dipped lower, casting an orange glow over the restless waves. Yet, none of it mattered. Not the cold, not the beauty of the beach. All I could see was Lily’s piercing gaze locked onto mine.

We stood there, frozen in a silent war, the tension between us heavier than the ocean’s salty air, it was almost palpable. Her composed mask was slipping, anger simmering just beneath the surface.

“Do you really think you’re going to win this?” Lily finally said, her voice cutting through the crashing waves. Her tone was threatening and her eyes darkened.

“I’m not afraid of you, Lily,” I shot back, tightening my grip on my phone. Her threats couldn’t scare me. I was going to send the video to an agent once I was back at home, I knew what I wanted now. I was certain now.

Her lips curved into a cold, humorless smile. “You should be.”

And before I could reac