JOAN'S POV
I sat in front of the vanity mirror. The bright lights made the room feel warmer than it actually was. The makeup artist’s hands moved expertly across my face, dabbing foundation, brushing my cheeks with blush, and carefully lining my eyes. I could see the reflection of the glam team bustling around me, working on my hair and choosing the perfect jewelry.
A strange knot of excitement formed in my stomach, tightening with each passing minute. I knew what was coming—tonight was a public event, and I’d be accompanying Derrick. Both of us would be attending a charity gala tonight. It would be the perfect soft launch for our relationship.
Derrick.
Just the thought of him made my heart race with a mix of butterflies and nerves that I could never quite shake. Every time I thought
