Kimi spun around to face Kolton as he approached Adalind's side. His arm snaked possessively around Adalind's waist, the gesture deliberate enough to catch Kimi's eye.
She maintained her mask of indifference, though something twisted uncomfortably in her chest.
"N-Nothing important," Adalind stammered, her gaze dropping to the floor.
Kimi studied her carefully. Adalind's entire demeanor had shifted the moment Kolton appeared.
Was this genuine nervousness around him, or another calculated performance designed to showcase her supposed innocence?
A spark of mischief flickered in Kimi's eyes as she met Kolton's questioning stare.
"She's telling the truth. Just casual conversation about old times."
Kolton's eyebrow arched with curiosity. "What kind of old times?"
Adalind shot Kimi a warning glare that could have cut glass. Kimi's lips curved into a knowing smile.
"Why the hostile look? Did I cross some invisible line?"
