His comment was like a slap to the face, but I didn’t flinch. I gave him a tight smile, my voice dripping with sarcasm. “I care because people deserve better. But of course, not everyone thinks that way.” I didn’t need to say more; the unspoken words hung heavy in the air.
Braxton’s jaw tightened, but he didn’t reply. His silence told me all I needed to know.
The tension stayed thick between us as we finished our meal, but Lila barely looked at me after that. I could tell she was trying to avoid my gaze, probably afraid I’d say more. I wouldn’t have minded, honestly. But there was something else gnawing at me, something that made me feel uneasy.
When we were done, Braxton offered to take me home, but I waved him off. “I’ll walk,” I said coolly. “Need the fresh air.”
Lila’s relief was obvious, though she tried to hide it behind a tight smile.
Braxton glanced between us before speaking again. “I’ll take Lila back to the packhouse, then. Be careful, Calla.”
Lila hesitated. “Braxton, you don’t need to. Calla lives closer. You should take her home.”
I narrowed my eyes at her, sensing something off. Why did she care so much about him taking me home?