Chapter 142

"Because you're not like them," Jacob said softly, lowering his voice and leaning in so only she could hear. "You're real. That's why they can't stay away from you." Lily's head snapped up, shocked by his words. His face held no teasing, no hidden plan—only truth. Real, open truth. That scared her more than anything, because sincerity was dangerous. Sincerity made walls fall down, and she needed those walls to survive. "Remember this," Jacob added, his voice calm but firm. "Carson isn't your enemy. He's just blind. But David... David sees everything. And that makes him the most dangerous one." Before Lily could answer, the elevator dinged and the doors opened. She quickly stepped inside, cutting him off. "Enough, Jacob. I don't want to hear it." She pressed the button and turned her face away. The doors started to close, and Lily caught her reflection in the golden mirror. Her eyes betrayed her—hurt, fear, anger, all mixing together until she could barely breathe. The doors closed with