Unyielding Resolve

"I'm not about to back down just because you're trying to get in the way. And I'm pretty sure that's the last thing Alar would want," she said.

After getting everything off her chest, Aria met Malachi's gaze, her expression unwavering.

She could tell Malachi was clearly displeased by what she said.

Malachi was genuinely annoyed by Aria's defiance.

Even though he'd braced himself for her rejection,