linking of champagne glasses. Tonight, however, I wasn't here to start a war. I was here to end one, quietly. The divorce w

contrast to the colorful peacocks around me. Heads turned. Whispers

iant in a white dress that made her look like a bride. She was playing her part perfectly, smiling sweetly at everyone who approached, while her e

ghtened, a muscle jumping in his jaw. H

al-climbing friends, decided to make her move. She gli

to see you here. I thought you'd be... indispos

for those nearby to hear.

, my voice smooth as silk. "But thank you for your concern. It's touchin

her mouth to retort, but I was alrea

ssessive arm around Bella's waist, pulling her closer. It was a clear, public declaration. He was

breath, willing myself to stay calm. The old me would have thrown a drink in his face. The ne

nd, his hand resting low on her back, a smirk playing on his lips. It was a performance for my benefit, a deliberate

t, tense drama unfolding on the dance floor. They were getting their story: the

ella, emboldened by his public display of affection, "accidentally" stumbled, jostl

her hand flying to her mouth in

f aggression. Mark, of course, s

He didn't even look at the stain on my dress. He was too busy fussing over Bel

focating. He was so complet

voice unnervingly calm

oom anymore. The air was too thick with hypocrisy and lies. I had made a mis