บท 228: Ripples in the Spotlight    

[EVE]

I hated how he had thrust me into the spotlight. But I'd known this was coming. It was the very reason I hadn't wanted to attend—because deep down, I knew this would happen.

From the corner of my eye, I caught sight of Sophie, Sophia, and Sullivan, their glares sharp enough to pierce steel. Sophie looked positively livid, while Sophia's calculating expression remained intact, though her clenched fists betrayed her growing frustration. Sullivan, on the other hand, stood stiff, his lips pressed into a thin, disapproving line.

Not far away, Sinclair leaned casually against the railing, a glass of champagne in hand, his smirk radiating amusement at the unfolding drama. Victor, standing a few paces from him, appeared ready to approach me, but he was promptly intercepted by none other than Cain and Leanna Fay.