Chapter 31 Jealousy's Edge

• "Everybody's here to see and be seen," Ethan's voice drifted over the hum of chatter and clinking glasses as we stepped into the opulent ballroom. Crystal chandeliers hung like glittering crowns from the high ceiling, casting a warm seductive glow over the sea of impeccably dressed guests. The possessive press of Ethan's hand to my lower back was an anchor that steered me through the crowd, yet his gaze kept darting over to Mia, who walked a few feet in front of him, her laughter tinkling like delicate chimes.
• I summoned my brightest smile, but this time the knot in my stomach tugged tighter. It was the type of high-class event Ethan loved: exclusive gathering of well-connected and affluent people-a playground to his liking. Yet tonight was different. The air between us crackled, electric with unspoken tension and lingering gazes.
• She moved easily between the conversations, her charisma dialled up to ten, as she milled around with Ethan's friends and acquaintances. It was as if she belonged in this world-so much so that her every move conveyed self-assurance and comfort-whereas I was somehow a voyeur, a member of the audience for what should have been my show.