Jayden's POV
A chill ran down my spine as George erupted into laughter, the sound echoing off the walls of my office like a twisted melody.
He stepped closer, his fist connecting with my shoulder in that familiar gesture we'd shared during our high school days. Back then, it meant friendship and camaraderie. Now, it felt like a serpent's touch.
The boy I once called friend had morphed into something sinister, radiating malice from every pore. I instinctively brushed my hand over the spot where he'd touched me, creating distance between us.
Despite everything, seeing the smug satisfaction on his face gave me a perverse sense of accomplishment. At least I'd gotten under his skin.
"What's so amusing? You still haven't given me an answer." My voice carried the authority I'd learned to wield as royalty.
George's expression shifted to mock deference. "Forgive me, Your Royal Highness." He executed an exaggerated bow that dripped with sarcasm.
