Ella's POV
We were still in the grand hall, the after-party now in full swing for the past hour or two. The air was filled with music, people dancing and jamming to the beat.
The scene reminded me of a club but a rather fancy one with its luxurious decor and stylish attendees.
Artemis was somewhere in the crowd, still engrossed in conversation with the president and other influential members of the society. Meanwhile, I stood awkwardly at the corner, feeling out of place and unable to bring myself to join the dance.
My ex-convict status hung over me like a shadow, making me feel as though I didn't belong, as though others would judge me if I dared to let loose.
I glanced at the time on the silver watch adorning my wrist, a last-minute addition by the boutique attendant. It was a beau
