I had come to that party alone.

Spencer spotted me from across the ballroom, felt the cool weight of everyone’s glances, and — for the sake of appearances, nothing more — dropped Bianca’s hand, crossed the floor, and slid his arm around my waist.

“You know no one could ever take your place,” he murmured, and then, in full view of Bianca, pressed a deliberate kiss to my cheek.

She smiled a tight, correct little smile, and her eyes burned.