The party resumed with a forced spectacle of dancing and champagne toasts, as if the earlier accusations had been nothing more than a minor disturbance. But the foundation of the evening had been cracked, and the shadows now seemed to hold a grudge, waiting for their moment.
Sarah stood beside Michael with a champagne flute poised but untouched in her hand. The powerful smiles and clinking glasses around her felt like a tribute to the man at her side. He had saved the night. Her eyes scanned the room, finding Malik standing at the edge of the light, a solitary figure in the crowd he had stunned but could not join.
From the Roy family's corner, a burst of laughter rose above the orchestra. David leaned toward Evelyn, his voice a stage whisper. "Even a cleaner can shine in a suit. But scru
