The call finally ended. Letting out a quiet breath of relief, Phoebe hurried toward the private parking area where her parents' vehicle was already waiting. Moments later, she slipped into the rear seat, forcing herself to appear calm as the luxury sedan slowly pulled away from the gala.
Meanwhile, in the darkness beyond the venue, a formidable figure stood motionless, his commanding presence radiating quiet authority. His dark eyes remained fixed on the taillights disappearing into the distance.
"I wasn't someone who met you yesterday, sweetheart," he murmured in a low, dangerous baritone. "I know every shift in your voice. I know exactly when you're telling me the truth... and when you're lying."
A faint, chilling smirk curved across his lips. For once, he had no intention of exposing her deception. Instead, he chose to let it pass, curious to see just how far she intended to carry it.
