His Dangerous Truth
Julian feels the change before he sees the reason.
Adrian arrives with Celeste.
They do not rush. People like them never have to. The cameras turn toward them as if pulled by gravity. Celeste is beautiful in deep green, elegant enough to make the color look quiet rather than bold. Adrian stands beside her in black, his hand resting at the small of her back as they pause for photographs.
The gesture is subtle. Protective. Polished.
It cuts Julian more sharply than it should.
He had known Adrian would come with her. The invitation said it clearly. Adrian Blackwell and Celeste Carrington. A pairing printed neatly on heavy paper, acceptable in public, understandable to everyone, easy to photogra