Ava's POV
The applause was deafening as I stepped off the stage, the glass award heavy in my hand, though not half as heavy as the glances burning into my skin. I didn’t look up or glance towards the crowd. That would only allow me to sort Kyle’s gaze as I could already feel his eyes on me. That wasn’t all. Amidst all the stares, I could also feel Lillian’s glare. The venom in it was so strong I could practically taste it on my tongue. But none of it mattered. All I wanted was to get back to my seat, as my heels were killing me.
I smiled graciously at the people I passed, nodded at the compliments thrown my way, and ducked my head as I hurried to the table where Zareon was supposed to be. But the moment I reached our seat, my heart stopped.
He wasn’t there.
Neither was Spring.
My grip
