Nora's POV
My grip on James's hand becomes almost painful as I spot them across the restaurant. The choice before me crystallizes with perfect clarity - I can either let these people ruin what has been a perfect evening, or I can take control of the situation. Tonight belongs to James and me. He planned this date with such care, and after everything we've endured lately, we deserve one night without demons lurking in every shadow.
Livia Sutton stands frozen by the hostess station, her eyes wide with what looks like genuine surprise. The last time our paths crossed was at the Vivian Hill Halloween event, where she'd made some excuse about not wanting to miss her granddaughter's first trick-or-treating experience. But I knew better. She came to spy on me, just like Phoenix did. That night, I'd refused to acknowledge either of them, and the freedom of that choice had been intoxicating.
Too bad a scrapper demon had to go and dent my Jeep afterward.
