Chloe's POV
The applause stopped. Not gradually.
It just simply... died.
One moment the studio had been filled with bright lights, smiling cameras, and the polished energy of live television.
The next—
Was complete silence.
It was suffocating.
The kind that settled over people after hearing something they never expected.
I remained seated in my chair, unable to move. Wondering if I had just singlehandedly ruined the only chance at me and Zoe ever having a normal life.
My palms rested on my knees.
Cold.
My breathing came slowly.
Shakily.
The interviewer beside me stared as though he'd forgotten he was hosting a show.
Someone behind one of the cameras whispered,
"We're off air."
Only then did I realize it was over.
I'd done it.
I'd told the truth.
And there was no taking it back.
A production assistant hurried onto the stage.
"Miss Hawkins."
His voice was careful.
"If you'll come with us."
I nodded weakly.
