Chapter 30. The Encounter

Victoria’s POV

“Good afternoon,” I said, my voice steady despite the storm of emotions swirling inside me. “Welcome to Blackwood Atelier. How can I assist you today?”

Ethan’s eyes met mine at that moment, a flicker of surprise flashing across his face before he schooled his expression into one of neutrality. “Victoria,” he said, his voice even but uncertain.

Lily was less subtle; her eyes widened in shock and horror on seeing me, the look in her eyes told me clearly that she thought I was dead or in a really bad condition. But then, she regained her composure once more.

Her lips curled into a smirk as she took a slow, deliberate step forward. “Victoria,” she repeated, her tone dripping with mock sweetness. “What a... coincidence.”

The jab in her words was subtle but unmistakable. A coincidence indeed. I forced a polite smile. “How can I assist you both today?”

Standing there, staring at them, I couldn’t help but wonder how things had change