Shattered Charade

***"You're not very good at lying, Rose."*** Kaelen’s words echoed in my mind like a sudden clap of thunder on a clear afternoon. He already knew. He had known all along. And yet, he hadn’t bothered to expose me—until now. A chill ran down my spine as the truth left his lips, undeniable and sharp. I had to change his mind. Somehow, I had to make him doubt.

I forced a wide smile, leaning into my wo