Kimberly froze at Elena's question, her mind racing. The sharpness in Elena's voice was unlike anything she had ever heard from her before.
Elena's eyes bore into her, unrelenting. "Kimberly, answer me. Why didn't you tell me about Mona's offer?"
Kimberly opened her mouth to speak, but no words came out. Her heart pounded in her chest, and she struggled to find an explanation.
*How does she know? Did Mona tell her? Or is she testing me?*
Elena stepped closer, her tone more firm this time.
"Kimberly, don't lie to me. You know I've always tried to protect you. I can't help you if you keep secrets from me."
Kimberly swallowed hard, tears threatening to spill again, but she forced herself to stay calm.
The air in the room grew tense, and she could feel Elena's frustration rising.
