#Chapter 14 – Rumor Has It

Olivia's POV Ethan’s head dipped slightly. Anyone who wasn’t actively looking for it would never know, but it was enough. Grace's face lit up with excitement, like she'd just won some priceless gift. “Really?” she breathed, practically glowing with anticipation. The sight of her made my stomach twist, though I wasn’t sure why. After all, this was just an arrangement, a relationship of convenience and mutual gain. But still, an unexpected twinge of disappointment flickered in my chest. I clenched my fists at my sides, fighting the irrational sting. It wasn’t like I had any right to feel betrayed, and yet, something in me had hoped Ethan and I might at least grow to be friends. Maybe I hoped we might grow to be more someday. I definitely had hoped he would honor our deal the same way I had. I swallowed hard, pressing my back against the cool wall, trying to steady my breath. This was the reality check I finally needed. I was nothing more than a means to an end. I