Her Purpose || Kai Parker

Chapter 61

**(Mature themes and explicit content ahead)**

Estrella had no idea that Caroline and Lexi were growing suspicious.

The first hint came when Lexi suggested a spa day, hoping to spend some quality time together.

Without missing a beat, Estrella quickly lied, saying she was stuck at college with last-minute assignments and that Caroline was helping her.

Lexi, though confused, didn't press the matter.

"Alright, we can plan something for another day," she replied, her tone light, though her eyes darted toward Caroline, who was sitting comfortably in the living room, laughing with Liz as they watched a family movie together.

Another time, Caroline invited Estrella to join her for a day out, hoping for some girl time.

Once again, Estrella lied, claiming she was with Lexi.

Caroline frowned, her gaze shifting to Lexi, who was standing right in front of her.

The lie was so obvious that it hung in the air like a heavy cloud.

Later, when the two friends had a moment alone, Lexi couldn't help but ask, "Care, did Ella seem... off to you?"

Caroline sighed, her expression serious. "Yeah, she did. Do you think she's hiding something from us?"

Lexi hesitated, then offered, "Or maybe it's nothing. You know how Ella is-she's probably really stuck on her assignments. She wouldn't do that, right?"

Caroline nodded slowly, though doubt lingered in her eyes. "Yeah, you're right."

They shared a look of concern, knowing deep down that Estrella was lying to both of them.

But they didn't want to push too hard, not wanting to overwhelm their friend or drag the brothers into it-especially Damon, who had a flair for dramatics.

The last thing they needed was him blowing things out of proportion.

So, they decided to investigate quietly, keeping their suspicions to themselves.

Their plan was put on hold when they saw Enzo approaching, a smirk playing on his lips.

"Hello, gorgeous one and two," he greeted, draping an arm around each of them. "What are we up to?"

Caroline and Lexi exchanged a glance before reluctantly filling him in on their suspicions about Estrella.

Enzo's brow furrowed in puzzlement, but then he burst out laughing. "Ah, see, I've got you there. She was with me the whole time. She wanted an art model for her assignment."

Lexi raised an eyebrow, skeptical. "And she chose you as her study partner?"

Enzo feigned offense, placing a hand over his heart.

He shrugged nonchalantly. "She didn't want to make it awkward, so that's why she must have lied."

"But she would have asked me," Caroline insisted, her eyes narrowing slightly. "I've been her model before."

Enzo's smirk widened. "Maybe she's tired of blondes and wanted a guy."

Caroline wasn't convinced. "Then she would have asked Stefan."

"I meant handsome guy, gorgeous. But speaking of gorgeous," Enzo said, smoothly deflecting the question, "how's that other witch friend of yours?"

"Bonnie?" Lexi asked, raising an eyebrow in confusion.

"Ahh, Bonnie Bennett," Enzo echoed with a grin. "How is she?"

Caroline's protective instincts kicked in immediately. "Estrella is off-limits, Enzo. Do you understand? Keep your fangs to yourself."