Maddy's POV
"I'm fine," I said, though the words came out hoarse. "Or at least I will be once people stop staring."
Nate gave a low, humourless chuckle. "They'll find something else to gossip about in five minutes. Give it time."
I tried to breathe, but the embarrassment burned hotter than I wanted to admit. Max's retreating figure still flickered at the edge of my mind — his hand gripping Alissa's arm, his expression torn between anger and shame. The echo of my slap still lived on my palm, and now, somehow, I was the villain of the story.
Before I could say anything else, a cool, lilting voice broke through the fragile calm.
"Well, that was… dramatic."
Eliza.
Of course.
She stepped toward us with deliberate grace, her heels clicking softly against the polished fl
