The grand hall was alive with muted murmurs and flickering candlelight as evening descended. A special gathering had been arranged—a small, private event for the household and select guests. Cassandra moved through the room with measured grace, every glance and smile calculated. She knew Elena had something planned, though the exact nature of it remained a mystery.
Abby lingered nearby, quietly observing every movement of the servants. She had long ago recognized Cassandra’s skill in reading subtle cues, but Abby’s own vigilance ensured that no trap would go unnoticed.
As Cassandra approached the center of the room, Elena emerged from the shadows, her presence elegant yet dangerous. “Ah, Cassandra,” she said softly, her voice carrying the weight of hidden intent. “I was beginning to wonder how long you could hide behind your perfect composure.”
Cassandra’s lips curved into a faint smile. “I don’t hide, Elena. I simply… choose my moments.”
Elena’s eyes flicked to the assembled guests. “Moments can be manipulated, don’t you think? A simple misstep, a misplaced word, and reputations crumble.”
Before Cassandra could respond, a small vase tipped over near the edge of the table—an apparent accident, but one that could have caused embarrassment or worse. Dante, who had been quietly observing from the doorway, moved with lightning precision. In a single step, he caught the vase before it could fall, his hands brushing against Cassandra’s for the briefest moment.
“Careful,” he murmured, his golden eyes locking with hers, a quiet warning laced with something unspoken.
Cassandra felt a faint warmth at the contact, a spark she tried to ignore but couldn’t. “Thank you,” she said softly, her tone playful yet appreciative.
Elena’s smirk faltered slightly, realizing her subtle attempt at disruption had failed. But she didn’t retreat; instead, she took a slow step closer, eyes gleaming with determination. “You really think you can outmaneuver me?” she whispered, almost to herself.
Cassandra’s gaze never wavered. “I don’t think. I know.”
The tension in the room was palpable. Guests murmured nervously, sensing the silent clash of wills between the two women. Abby, standing at a discreet distance, silently ensured that no one could manipulate the situation further, her loyalty a quiet shield around Cassandra.
Dante’s presence loomed near, protective and silent, his jaw tight with barely restrained intensity. Every subtle glance, every measured breath, spoke volumes—he was ready to intervene if Elena overstepped, but he also relished the quiet game unfolding before him.
As the evening drew on, Cassandra felt the weight of every gaze, the tension of every unspoken challenge. Elena had struck first, but the game was far from over. And Cassandra, with Dante by her side and Abby’s quiet vigilance, was more than prepared to turn the tables.
Author’s Note:
Chapter 14, my fiery readers! 🔥 The tension explodes tonight with Elena’s bold attempt, Cassandra’s calm brilliance, and Dante’s protective sparks making the scene sizzle. Abby stays quietly loyal, proving even subtle allies can make a difference. The game is heating up—don’t forget to like and follow on 抖阴社区 to see how the next moves unfold! 💙
YOU ARE READING
The Devil's Favorite Villainess
RomanceI transmigrated into the villainess-the unwanted sister, the scheming witch, the one meant to be discarded. She was supposed to get the fairytale ending. I was supposed to die trying to steal it. But I made one small change: I seduced the devil hims...
