Chapter 260

CELINE’S POV The air outside my room was thick, charged with something I couldn’t name. My father’s eyes bore into mine, hard and commanding, while Seraphina stood at his side, her lips curled in that poisonous little smirk. “Let us in,” Father ordered. His tone left no room for argument. My stomach knotted, but I forced myself to step back, my fingers tightening around the doorframe. Hesitantly, I pushed it open wider and allowed them inside. The moment they crossed the threshold, the safety of my room shattered. The familiar space felt smaller, suffocating, as if their presence had stolen all the air. Seraphina moved with practiced grace, settling herself on the edge of my chair like she owned the place. Father remained standing, tall and imposing, his hands clasped behind his back. I swallowed, clutching the edge of my desk as though it could ground me. “Why are you here?” I asked, forcing my voice to sound steady, though I could feel my pulse racing in my throat. Father turned to m