Chapter 7

When Calista regained consciousness, she saw Ken's silhouette in the doorway, a cigarette flickering between his fingers like a dying star. Relief washed over her as she felt the luck charm clutched in her palm.

Through tear-blurred eyes, she watched him enter, his voice taut with anger. "How did you fall in the pool? Do you know how dangerous that was? You've been unconscious for two days!"

Calista's voice trembled. "Why did you give my necklace to Viola?"

Ken's expression hardened. "It's just a trinket. Why does it matter?"

"Of course it matters," she replied, a bitter laugh escaping. "She's the one you love. You'd give it to her."

His gaze darkened. "Is that why you threw yourself in the pool? To get my attention?"

Disgust flashed across his face. "You've lost your mind, Calista. We're siblings! Everything I've done has been as a brother—nothing more."

He shot back, "Don't harbor these inappropriate feelings for me!" but immediately regretted it as her soft response cut deep.

"Okay."

Her acceptance stunned him into silence.

"Ken, I'm leaving."

His heart clenched. "This is your home. Where would you go?"

Calista's laugh was hollow. "Home? I've been falsely accused, targeted, and you never believed me. This isn't my home."

His discomfort was palpable. "If you behave, I'll always treat you like a sister."

He handed her a spray for her bruises, the contradiction clear—pushing her away yet still caring.

Ken's brow furrowed at the satellite research books beside her bed. "Since when are you interested in satellites?"

"I want to follow in my parents' footsteps," she replied, fingers tracing the book's spine.

"Satellite research is demanding," he warned, his tone softening. "If you're serious, I can arrange for Father to help you."

Calista nodded slowly, an odd calmness enveloping her. "Alright."

"When you're better, apologize to Viola," he urged, searching her eyes.

Calista turned away, feeling a piercing ache in her heart, mirroring the growing distance between them.