Phoebe's POV
While Christian was locked in his argument with Bianca, I caught him stealing glances my way. The moment he spotted the shift in my expression, I could practically feel his internal celebration.
I could almost hear his thoughts: 'Perfect, she's buying it. Just a young girl, no matter how smart she thinks she is - still gullible as hell. Dad's always been too hung up on his damn pride to see what really matters.'
For Christian, pride was worthless when his neck was on the line. Nothing else counted.
His reasoning was clear: They're literally here to end us, and you're still obsessing over your reputation? Right now, staying breathing is the only thing that matters! Live through this, and we might have a shot. Die here, and it's game over.
