Annabel couldn’t help but feel a little uncomfortable as everyone’s eyes landed on her. She shifted in her dress, suddenly self-conscious, adjusting the fabric as if it could somehow shield her from their gazes. Tracy was the first to approach, her signature chameleon smile plastered across her face.
“It’s so good to see you here,” Tracy said, pulling Annabel into an unexpected hug.
Annabel rolled her eyes internally, not quite understanding why Tracy was suddenly being so friendly. But she didn’t complain—she just forced a polite smile and let it happen.
“Come here,” Tracy added, taking Annabel’s hand and leading her straight into the center of attention.
“I’m glad you made it,” Albert said warmly.
Andrew, however, said nothing. He barely glanced at Annabel before quickly looking awa
