The family reunion is a roar of overlapping voices, clinking glasses, and too-sweet punch that's been spiked with stronger vodka. I slip away from the dining room chaos, murmuring something about needing air.
I did, because something else was going on, and only two people knew about it. Me and him.
My red dress clings to every curve, neckline low enough that David raised his eyebrows when I came downstairs.
I chose it because I wanted to feel alive tonight. I didn't expect him to notice.
Except I did. I absolutely did.
I'm halfway up the stairs when I feel someone behind me. I don't have to turn around to know who it is. I've been hyperaware of Richard all evening. Where he's standing. Who he's talking to. The way his eyes follow me across a room before he looks away like he's caught him
