The rest of the evening at the Darnell Estate passed in a blur of polite conversation and carefully measured smiles. I drifted between groups of students, clutching my clutch tightly, letting the hum of music and chatter mask the turbulence in my chest. Damian was never far, always present, always aware, but he wasn’t overtly interfering. That, in itself, was almost more infuriating than if he had been openly teasing me.
I had just excused myself to the balcony, seeking a breath of cool night air, when I saw him.
Damian.
Not across the room. Not casually observing. But standing close—too close—for comfort with someone else. A girl I hadn’t seen much before tonight, with light brown hair and a laugh that carried easily across the terrace. She was leaning toward him slightly, whispering s
