CHERYL'S POV
The moment I stepped into the ballroom, a wave of nostalgia crashed over me. The chandeliers sparkled like constellations, casting a golden glow over the sea of satin gowns and tailored suits. Laughter and the soft clinking of glasses filled the air, mingling with the faint strains of classical music.
I took a deep breath, the scent of roses and aged wine wrapping around me like a familiar embrace. Everywhere I looked, there were faces from my past—some aged gracefully, others clinging desperately to their youth. I offered polite smiles, nodding at acquaintances, while skillfully avoiding deeper conversations.
Anika stood near the grand staircase, her eyes narrowing as they met mine. She sneered, the same condescending look that I have been forced to get used to, honestly I
