Bella's POV
If I had known a simple evening stroll would spiral into this mess, I would've stayed home.
Lucius's words trapped me in another impossible corner.
Three sets of eyes bore into me with uncomfortable intensity.
Ivy's stare burned with accusation and hurt, making my skin crawl with unease.
She wasn't even looking at Lucius—the one who'd started this whole disaster. Instead, she kept throwing wounded glances my way.
Even Jasper's usual warmth had evaporated. He'd been working overtime to keep the peace between us all.
But Lucius's single comment shattered that fragile truce, sending our relationship crashing back to sub-zero temperatures.
Jasper sucked in a deep breath and plastered on a strained smile. "Lucius, you've got it wrong. Bella doesn't go for rabbit decorations. That's Ivy's thing."
Ivy bobbed her head in agreement, her voice barely a whisper as she begged, "Lucius, I'm the one who likes the rabbit lantern. Please stop putting Bella on the spot..."
