I stood near the corner of the reception hall, half-shadowed by the towering floral arrangement behind me. I took a sip from my wine glass, letting the sharp taste settle on my tongue.Across the room, Sebastian was deep in conversation with his family. My parents stood beside them, smiling like they belonged. Von hovered nearby, nodding along with every word. They looked like a perfectly assembled cabinet of power.“Lorelie.”I turned, blinking as Venice stepped into view. Her hair was perfectly pinned, her makeup perfect, but her eyes softened when they met mine.“You look… breathtaking,” she said honestly, giving my gown a once-over. “I mean it. I don’t think anyone here could compete with you tonight.”I forced a small smile. “That’s the idea, right?”“Hmmm….I guess you’re right,” She tilted her head. “Are you okay?”The words caught me off guard—not because they were unexpected, but because they sounded too kind for a night like this.“I don’t know,” I admitted quietly. “I’m not
Last Updated : 2025-10-21 Read more