An Announcement

TRISTIN'S POV

"Oh, look who decided to show up," she said, her tone dripping with sarcasm as she glanced at Eva. "And she brought a friend."

I forced a smile. "Yes, Aaron. He's helping with the project."

Livia’s eyes narrowed slightly, but she quickly masked it with a sweet smile. "Well, it's always good to make new friends. Right, Tristin?"

"Right," I muttered, turning my attention back to the party.

Throughout the evening, I found myself acting cold towards Eva, barely acknowledging her presence. It was childish, but I couldn’t help it. Every time I saw her with Aaron, laughing and talking, it felt like a punch to the gut.

I was talking to some colleagues when I overheard Sophie and Eva chatting nearby. Sophie, ever the meddler, was clearly trying to lighten the mood.

"So, Eva," Sophie said loudly, "Aaron seems great. You two make a cute couple!"

I could see Eva's cheeks turn pink as she stammered, "Oh, we're not... I mean, we're just working together."

Aaron, standing next to her,