Not knowing?

Rose's heart pounded in her chest as she watched Liam's eyes, their warm glow suddenly tainted with a flicker of anger. Her gaze shifted from Liam to the old woman who had been conversing with him just moments ago. The woman exuded an air of opulence and spoke with a commanding tone that seemed to carry the weight of her wealth. Clad in an evening dress that radiated elegance and allure, she stood out among the attendees of the auction.

Confusion and curiosity consumed Rose's thoughts. How could Liam bring her to such a public event, especially when they were supposed to be maintaining the facade of a happy couple? She had assumed they would continue their charade discreetly, far from prying eyes. The scenario seemed ill-fitting, like pieces of a puzzle forced together, creating an unsettling dissonance.

Rose observed Liam's smile, contrasting the one he had reserved solely for her. It bore an intensity she had not seen before, an amalgamation of warmth and anger. She wondered what ha