The evolving dynamics between Niall and Cullen's friends were becoming increasingly apparent to everyone. When Niall celebrated her birthday, Cullen had arranged for Marco and his other friends to join the celebration. Now, as Niall competed in a race, those same friends were present in the stands, cheering her on with genuine enthusiasm.

Over time, Niall had seamlessly integrated into Cullen's social circle. Their connection had grown so strong that they frequently invited her to gatherings even when Cullen wasn't around. Marco and the others had embraced her as one of their own, treating her like family. Perhaps as a natural consequence of this acceptance, their attitude toward Veronica had grown progressively colder over the past couple of years.

There had been a time when Veronica genuinely wanted to foster relationships with Cullen's friends. However, they had always regarded her with thinly veiled contempt, never offering her the chance to truly belong. Veronica had her dignity, so after their rejection became clear, she didn't push the issue. Still, whenever their paths crossed, she maintained her politeness and greeted them cordially when social situations demanded it.

Despite her efforts, she was usually either completely ignored or met with condescending looks that made her stomach knot. Today was no exception, and Veronica had no intention of initiating conversation. She attempted to walk past Marco without acknowledgment, her eyes fixed straight ahead.

"Ms. Murray, I didn't know you were interested in racing," Marco's voice cut through the air, his tone dripping with sarcasm and suspicion.

It was obvious he assumed she was only there because she was stalking Cullen, trying to insert herself into his life yet again. The accusation hung unspoken between them.

Veronica turned slowly, her eyes meeting his, her voice taking on an icy edge she rarely revealed. "What are you trying to say?"

Marco didn't bother concealing his disdain as he replied, "Just thought someone like you doesn't seem the type to enjoy racing. I was curious."

"Someone like me?" Veronica kept her gaze steady, refusing to be intimidated. "Mr. Valerie, do we know each other well? Do you think you understand me? If so, why don't you enlighten me—what kind of person am I?"

Marco had always perceived Veronica as quiet, gentle, and somewhat shy and reserved. But beneath that veneer, he was convinced lay a calculating personality. In his mind, only someone truly manipulative could have done what she had years ago to capture Cullen's attention. Yet she continued playing innocent, refusing to admit her role in the incident that had defined her in their eyes.

Marco remained silent, his judgment evident without words. He didn't consider Veronica worth his time or effort to engage further.

Today, however, something felt different about the way Veronica addressed him. It was as if she had finally discarded her mask of pretense, no longer interested in maintaining the charade. Yet even this new demeanor wasn't entirely transparent. While her gaze was undoubtedly cold, sharp, and clear, there lingered an unmistakable mockery in her eyes.

It was as if she were silently ridiculing him for believing he had her all figured out, for standing on his moral pedestal while passing judgment without truly understanding the full scope of the situation.

Veronica, for her part, couldn't care less about Marco's opinion of her. She broke their eye contact and walked away, her head held high despite the familiar ache in her chest.

Seraphine had arranged an apartment rental for Leo near his school. By the time Veronica dropped him off after the race, it was already 11:00 pm. Despite having eaten earlier, Leo's stomach growled audibly.

"Veronica, there's a spot nearby with great late-night snacks," he suggested eagerly. "Let me treat you."

Veronica hadn't eaten dinner yet. The thought of something warm and comforting was appealing after the emotional chill of her encounter with Marco. She nodded in agreement. As soon as they settled at a table, her stomach betrayed her with an unmistakable rumble.

Leo stopped mid-sentence, suddenly realizing the situation. "Wait, you didn't have dinner?"

"No," she admitted quietly.

His expression immediately transformed into one of guilt. "I'm so sorry, Veronica. It's all my fault..."

"It's fine," she assured him with a gentle smile. "I wasn't hungry earlier."

Looking at her reassuring expression, Leo felt a pang of sadness. He thought Veronica was truly remarkable—kind, patient, and genuinely caring. It was tragic that Cullen couldn't see what was right in front of him. What a waste, he thought, watching as Veronica scanned the menu, her profile illuminated by the restaurant's soft lighting, highlighting the quiet dignity she carried even after years of rejection.