Jefferson's POV
"What the hell is going on?"
The words escaped my mind, but it was Javier who voiced them. The instant he spoke, Julian's focus shifted to him with laser precision. That insufferable grin melted away, replaced by something darker.
"You found yourself a replacement best friend already? That stings, Jefferson Jefferson."
What the hell?
That snapped me out of my stunned stupor. This was Julian, after all. Staging his own death fell well within his repertoire of twisted schemes. The burning question wasn't how, but why.
Before I could demand answers, Roy's voice cut through the tension from behind me, low and urgent, as if he'd been waiting for the perfect moment to interject.
"I completed your request," he said, directing his words to Julian. "Now can I have Celeste?"
Julian's predatory smile returned instantly, sharp enough to cut glass. "Absolutely, brother. You've exceeded expectations. I'll take it from here."
