Chapter 1: The Unexpected Call
Chapter 1: The Unexpected Call
The grand doors had barely closed behind her when the applause inside erupted.
She didn't turn around.
The crisp night air filled her lungs for the first time in years. Every step away from the ballroom felt lighter than the last.
Then—
"Wait."
Daniel's voice echoed across the marble steps.
She stopped but didn't face him.
"I've been looking for you."
She let out a quiet laugh.
"No," she replied. "You've been looking at everyone except me."
Silence settled between them.
Daniel walked closer, confusion replacing the confidence he'd worn inside.
"My mother said you weren't feeling well."
"Your mother says a lot of things."
His expression shifted.
"What does that mean?"
She slowly turned to face him. For the first time all evening, she looked directly into his eyes.
"It means your entire life has been carefully arranged."
He frowned.
"I don't understand."
"I know."
She reached into her evening clutch and placed a sealed envelope into his hand.
"Read it after tonight."
"What's in it?"
"The truth."
Before he could ask another question, she stepped past him.
May you like
This time...
He didn't try to stop her.
