*Loveth's POV*
The next morning, the salon felt colder than usual—even with the dryers humming and curlers clicking.
Miracle walked in like nothing happened. Full smile. Loud greetings. But her eyes found mine almost immediately, and this time, she didn't blink.
"You left early," she said casually as she unpacked her kit beside mine.
"So did you," I replied, not bothering to sugar-coat.
She raised a brow. "Balcony was getting crowded."
It was subtle. A jab wrapped in silk. And I caught it.
I should've ignored her, but something about the way she said it—so calm, so fake—made my spine tighten.
Before I could speak, her tone shifted. Softer. "You know, Loveth… Ethan's not just anyone."
"I'm aware," I said quietly.
She leaned in. "Just make sure you don't forget who brought you into this world. I introduced you two."
I froze.
There it was—the warning beneath the pretty words.
---
*Ethan's POV*
I didn't like leaving them alone for too long.
Not because I didn't trust Loveth—but because I knew Miracle.
Her weapon wasn't violence. It was manipulation, sugar-laced and sharp.
I walked into the salon late, deliberately. I wanted to see their faces before they had time to reset.
Miracle was all grins. Loveth? Quiet. Too quiet.
"Did I miss something?" I asked.
They both said, "No," at the same time. Which, of course, meant *yes*.
---
*Miracle's POV*
Let her think she's winning. Let Ethan keep playing hero.
They both forget—
*I know the real secret.*
And when I decide to drop it, no one's walking out flawless.
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