Chapter 99

Sofia The low murmur of conversation faded as I followed Nadei, Nikolai, and Nial into the study. The warmth of the living room was left behind, replaced by the quiet weight of the dimly lit space. A fire crackled in the hearth, casting flickering shadows along the walls lined with bookshelves. The tension was tangible, wrapping around us like a second skin. The laughter and ease from dinner had settled into a cautious silence, and for a moment, none of us spoke. Nadei was the first to break it. “We need to talk about earlier.” His voice was as steady as ever, but there was something different this time—less command, more restraint. I crossed my arms, leaning against the edge of the desk. “Alright. Then talk.” Nikolai exhaled through his nose, running a hand through his hair before pacing to the window. “Sofia, we weren’t trying to control you,” he said, his voice quieter than usual. “That was never the intention.” I arched a brow. “Then what was?” He hesitated, his gaze flicking towar