BRIAR'S POV
There’s a sharp pain digging into my chest as I walk away from Tavian, gnawing at me and leaving a void that seems to grow deeper with each step.
I walk right past our table with Ida and Selene, heading for the back door at the far end of the room.
My pace quickens just before I reach the door.
I slip through it, hiding away from the leering eyes that have been watching me—away from the gossip and judgment of the guests—until I’m finally alone with my own thoughts, no longer feeling the countless gazes stabbing into me.
I can breathe again, though it’s rushed and heavy.
I’m finally away from that party, though the residual emotions linger, emotions I can’t fully explain.
Tavian’s behavior confuses me from start to finish—making a big fuss about leaning on him, focu
