Chapter 147

Elena’s POV Lady Valentina glanced between us, clearly sensing the shift in the air. “You know each other?” she asked, surprise threading her voice. Damian didn’t answer immediately. Instead, he smiled; slow, sharp, and deliberate. “We’ve crossed paths before,” he said. “Quite memorably.” His eyes settled on me, unblinking. The way a hunter watches something already cornered. “You remember my brother, Philip, don’t you?” he continued smoothly. “He’ll be sad to know you forgot him after everything.” My jaw tightened. “I remember him, of course,” I said, my voice coming out harder than I intended. “How is he?” The question burned. When Damian and Eric Thompson had caught us at the border, Damian’s rage had been merciless. I’d never been able to shake the image of Zane being dragged back, bloodied and helpless, while I was torn away. Guilt still sat heavy in my chest. Damian chuckled, clearly enjoying himself. “Oh, he’s perfectly fine. Home. Safe and surrounded by family.” His gaze slid o