Killian expected Anastasia to be annoyed.

  But he hadn’t expected this level of irritation.

  Ethan was practically buzzing with excitement as he flipped through his sketchbook, explaining his vision for their presentation. "So, instead of a boring slideshow, we should do a visual storytelling approach. A photography series that captures the essence of Persephone and Hades—power, fate, transformation. It’ll be way more immersive than just reciting facts."

  Leah nodded, clearly on board. "That actually sounds amazing. It would make our project stand out."

  Ethan grinned. "Exactly! And we can shoot in different locations to symbolize the Underworld versus the mortal realm. Dramatic lighting, atmospheric shots—it’ll be perfect."

  Killian smirked, watching as Anastasia remained silent, arms crossed. He already knew where this was going.

  "And," Ethan continued, flipping to a fresh page, "we need two people to play Persephone and Hades."

  The moment he said it, Anastasia’s expression darkened.

  Killian leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. "Well, that’s obvious, isn’t it?"

  Ethan beamed. "Right?! Killian, you’re literally Hades material—dark clothes, mysterious aura, general brooding energy—"

  Killian chuckled. "Appreciate that."

  Anastasia’s voice finally cut in, sharp and unimpressed. "We can just use models."

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  Ethan blinked. "But that takes away from the authenticity of the project. If we do it ourselves, it’s more personal. More raw."

  Killian swore he saw Anastasia grind her teeth.

  Leah hesitated before adding, "It does make sense. And, I mean… if Killian is Hades, then—"

  "No," Anastasia said flatly.

  Ethan frowned. "Why not?"

  "Because," she said, giving Killian a glance that was half warning, half exasperation, "it’s unnecessary. We can just focus on the story itself."

  Killian smirked. He should’ve let it go, but he was enjoying this too much. "Afraid you won’t fit the role?"

  Anastasia’s eyes snapped to his, something sharp flickering there. "Excuse me?"

  Ethan, completely oblivious to the silent war unfolding, leaned forward eagerly. "You would be perfect for Persephone, though! You’ve got that whole quiet-but-strong energy, and you don’t seem like the damsel type, which is great because Persephone isn’t weak—she’s powerful. The queen of the Underworld!"

  Killian swore he saw Anastasia’s fingers twitch.

  Leah gave a small, apologetic smile. "Honestly, Anastasia… it does make sense. And since it’s our project, it’s easier than bringing in an outsider."

  Anastasia exhaled through her nose, as if weighing her options.

  Killian knew exactly what was happening in her head.

  She didn’t want to do it. At all.

  But arguing would make it seem like she cared too much. And Anastasia hated giving people the satisfaction of knowing what got under her skin.

  Finally, after what felt like a full minute of tense silence, she said, "Fine."

  Ethan clapped his hands together, beaming. "This is gonna be amazing!"

  Killian?

  He just grinned.

  Because, for once, Anastasia Hart had been forced into his world.