The world seemed to tilt on its axis as Nicola's words echoed in the night air. My heart, already battered by the evening's events, shattered into a million tiny pieces. Tears streamed down my face, blurring the scene before me.
Alexander turned to Nicola, his brow furrowed in confusion. "What are you talking about?" he demanded, his voice tight with anger. "Ava? Is this true?"
His gaze swung back to me, searching for some flicker of recognition, some confirmation of Nicola's words. But I could only stare back at him, a hollow ache spreading through my chest. This wasn't happening. It couldn't be happening.
Nicola sashayed over and placed a hand on my shoulder, her touch as cold and calculating as her words. "Don't worry, darling," she cooed, her voice dripping with fake sympathy. "Ava has already met Jamila last week. She knows all about the engagement and I'm sure she gives her blessings."