Jasmine POV
“Aiden!”
The shout came sharp and loud, cutting through the room like a blade. Someone scraped a chair back. Someone else cursed under their breath. But it was already too late.
The words had landed.
They always did.
My hands went numb. The fork slipped from my fingers and clattered softly against the plate. The sound felt too loud, like it echoed inside my chest. I stood up without thinking, my chair tipping back slightly as I turned.
I didn’t look at anyone.
I didn’t want to see their faces.
I didn’t want to see pity. Or anger. Or embarrassment.
I just wanted out.
I rushed from the dining room, my steps quick and uneven. Behind me, I heard voices calling my name.
“Jasmine, wait.”
“Jasmine.”
Someone said something sharp, probably at Aiden. Someone else called agai
