My hand clenches around my champagne flute.
For a second, I consider shattering it.
Instead, I set it down gently.
Control.
Always control.
“She’s not for you to discuss like that,” I say, voice even.
Richard’s brows lift. “Ah.”
He smiles wider, like he’s pleased.
Pleased that he got a reaction.
Pleased that he found the bruise.
Elaine leans in slightly. “Richard.”
He ignores her again.
Then, with deliberate timing, he flags someone over.
A woman I immediately recognize from the folder.
Tall. Elegant. Black hair. Smile practiced, eyes bright with calculated interest.
She approaches with the ease of someone who’s been trained for this.
Richard beams at her like he’s presenting a gift.
“Julian,” he says, “have you met Simone D...”
I don’t let him finish. “No.”
The woman’s smile falters. Only for a second.
Richard chuckles, like I’m joking. “Don’t be rude. You two should dance. It’s important to be seen. And she...” he turns to Simone, letting his eyes drag over her for everyone to see, “she’ll get you seen.”
Something ugly coils in my gut.
Not because I care what Lucy thinks.
Because I care what my father is doing.
Because he’s turning this into a spectacle.
Because he’s asserting ownership in front of my entire world.
Theo and Lucy spin past on the dance floor, laughing, Lucy’s smile unguarded for the first time tonight.
Richard notices it.
His eyes narrow.
Then he looks back at me and smiles like a man who’s already planning his next move.
