Chapter 26

As she found refuge on the balcony, exchanging smiles with a few guests along the way, she couldn't shake the feeling that they only bothered to acknowledge her because she was beside the Sterlings.

“Finally,” she whispered, closing her eyes and relishing the soothing cool night air. Leaning on the railings, she gazed at the sparkling view created by the lights before her. It was breathtaking and instantly cleared her mind.

“This is more like it.”

In the quiet of the balcony, Emily began to sip her champagne. Fortunately, she had a high tolerance for alcohol, perhaps due to being a heavy drinker in the past. The memories brought a smile to her face, though it quickly vanished when she heard a very familiar voice.

“Has anyone said that you have a pretty smile? Maybe that’s why you only offer a very small one to some.”

She snapped her head behind her and saw Bryson. She sighed, deciding not to answer him. He joined her, leaning against the balcony railing.

"Quite the night, huh?"