Claudia raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a sharp, knowing smirk. She met his gaze without flinching.
"Let me correct you," she replied smoothly, her voice calm but cutting. "I used to follow you. I don't anymore. Those days are long gone."
Her words landed like a slap. For a second, Sebastian's expression went blank, then darkened instantly. The smug, controlled façade cracked, revealing the anger boiling underneath.
"Why?" he demanded, his voice tightening. "Are you no longer interested in social events?"
Claudia let out a dry laugh, shaking her head slowly. "No, Sebastian," she said evenly, "It's because your days are gone. You're no longer that important for anyone to invite you. The days of your prime are over."
Her words hit harder than a physical blow. Around them, the chatter in the restaurant seemed to fade, as though the air itself had gone still. Sebastian's jaw clenched, and a dangerous glint flashed in his eyes.
