Emerald.
I didn't look away as our eyes danced a silent battle. She regarded me for a long moment, clearing her throat to speak.
"Marcus told us how the conference went down, and it's good to know that you handled it quiet well."
"Thank yo-"
"It's not a compliment."
No one missed the bite in her words. Marcus winced beside me, quietly taking my hand in his. Smile, it's almost over, I told myself. The temptation to shake him off was there but I buried it.
"I don't want this happening again, be careful next time." she said, eyeing me. Her gaze shifted to Marcus, and though it was subtle, he straightened up.
"That goes for you two, Marcus." He nodded like a lost puppy, not letting go of my hand even once.
His parents shared a few words with Francesca's, leaving me and Marcus out of i
