KATRINA'S POV
As we left Melissa’s apartment, the car ride was unusually quiet. The soft hum of the engine filled the silence between us. Melissa sat with her eyes fixed on the passing streets, and I couldn’t tell if she was nervous or simply lost in thought. Maybe both.
I adjusted my dress slightly, smoothing the fabric of my lilac gown over my thighs. I’d put effort into tonight—I always did—but something about this evening felt heavier. A reunion should’ve felt light, fun. Instead, there was this lingering pressure. Maybe it was because we were both stepping into a room full of old faces, shared history, and maybe a few grudges.
When we arrived at the hotel, the valet opened our doors and the warm golden lights of the grand entrance spilled across our faces. Music floated from inside
