The tower comes into view before the car even stops. Bright lights wash over the entrance and cameras flash as guests arrive in glittering gowns and tailored suits. The entire place is buzzing with a kind of charged elegance that Ariana has only ever witnessed from a distance. Tonight, she is walking straight into it.
Vincent steps out of the car first. He adjusts his cuff as if he does not notice the attention he naturally draws. Ariana climbs out after him, careful with her red dress so she does not trip. The moment she straightens up, Vincent looks back at her, and his eyes pause longer than usual. He says nothing at first, as something snagged in his throat, but she catches the slight lift in his brow.
Before she can overthink it, Daryl jogs down the stairs.
“Sir. You made it just o
