"You…!" she snapped, stepping forward, fingers tightening around her sword hilt.
I held my breath, wondering if this was going to blow up again.
Her hand twitched toward her sword, fingers curling tighter around the hilt as if daring Leo to push her further.
Leo didn't flinch. Instead, he leaned in slightly, eyes gleaming with a cold fire that sent a chill down my spine.
"Don't mistake my honesty for disrespect. I'm telling you this because I see potential in you. But potential means nothing if your emotions cloud your judgment. That's the quickest way to lose—especially against someone who doesn't hesitate."
Leona's jaw clenched, her gaze burning holes into him.
"So now you're my judge and mentor? What gives you the right?"
"Reality gives me that right," Leo said quietly, voice calm but sharp like a razor's edge. "Because unlike most, I don't waste time on excuses or feelings. I do what needs to be done."
