The grand ballroom of the Carter Foundation Gala shimmered under the weight of crystal chandeliers and the murmur of high society. Ava stood beside Liam near the entrance, her spine rigid, her smile fixed in place like a mask. The ivory gown she wore was elegant, its high neckline and long sleeves a deliberate choice—armor against the prying eyes and whispered judgments of Liam’s world. She adjusted the sapphire earrings he had given her, their weight a constant reminder of the role she was expected to play.
Liam’s hand rested at the small of her back, his touch possessive yet controlled. “You look stunning,” he murmured, his voice low enough that only she could hear.
Ava didn’t glance at him. “I know.”
A corner of his mouth lifted, but he didn’t press further. Instead, his gaze swept o
