Erick's POV
I feel her hand tighten around mine as she adjusts to look me in the eyes, but we are interrupted by her friend who arrives at the worst possible moment.
"Arya..." he calls her attention with a gesture for her to come his way. She steps away from me and looks at me intently.
"He managed to come," she says, somewhat uncomfortable.
"Yes, but I don't think that makes you very happy."
"I'm sorry if I'm not shouting with joy. It's been a long night, and he arrived a bit late, but I'm glad he could make it. I must apologize; they're waiting for me. But don't worry, I dedicated a few words to you. Perhaps many of the guests will approach you. Enjoy the rest of the evening."
She bids me farewell, and I feel as if a bucket of cold water has been thrown on my face, waking me up to
