ALINA
Gasps sounded around us like firecrackers.
The scent of wine, sweet and sharp, filled the air as a hush fell over our corner of the ballroom.
"Oh no!" Victoria's voice trembled with false horror. "I'm so sorry. I didn't see you there." She apologized but her eyes were glittering with satisfaction.
I stared down at my dress—Analide's masterpiece—now soaked in dark red.
I blinked once. Twice. My heartbeat thundered in my ears.
Analide spun toward Victoria, her face frozen. "What the hell is wrong with you?"
"I said I was sorry," Victoria replied, her tone dripping sugar. "It's not my fault she wasn't watching where she was going."
I clenched my fists at my sides. My nails dug into my palms.
Don't slap her. Don't slap her.
I begged myself, closing my eyes
