"Put it on the floor."
Julian said it lazily, leaning forward slightly, his gaze fixed on Maria as if he were observing something insignificant.
Maria hesitated. Her breath came out unevenly, and slowly, trembling as she lowered her hand toward the ground.
Lunessa frowned.
She didn't fully understand what was happening.
Why was Maria so terrified?
Why did the air feel like it was about to snap?
Julian rose to his feet.
Slowly.
And when he lifted his leg slightly as if to step forward with clear intent, understanding struck Lunessa all at once.
Her eyes widened.
"No!" She grabbed his arm instantly, fingers tightening around his sleeve.
"What—what are you doing?" she demanded, her voice rising despite herself.
Julian paused. His movement stopped mid-step.
The entire room froze.
His gaze lowered to her hand gripping his arm, then lifted slowly to her face.
For a moment, the cold edge in his expression flickered.
"Why?" he asked quietly.
Lunessa swallowed.
