Joanne’s POV
The music was loud as Alexander guided me forward with the surety of someone who never faltered. His hand rested at my waist, light but certain, while the other clasped mine. Barefoot, I expected to stumble, but he adjusted every step, shaping the pattern so my misstep became grace.
I was aware of every pair of eyes on me, judging me, watching every move I made.
“Are you sure this is a good idea?” I asked, my eyes finding Alexander as his hand gripped my waist. “Every eye is on us… and if I make a fool out of myself again—”
“Do not pay attention to them,” Alexander murmured, interrupting me. “Keep your eyes on me.”
I stared at him for a moment longer before I allowed myself to relax, and I nodded slowly.
The masks and chandeliers blurred at the edges, the crowd fadi
