Daphne, who is oblivious to all the tension, hums to herself while adjusting Heidi's hair. "There we go. A little glam never killed anyone. Well, except maybe the insecure girls at school when they see you today."
Darien finally speaks. "I also need to get ready for the ceremony."
Heidi's heart gives a stupid little jump, like some part of her is still waiting for him to redeem himself. But then he adds, "Daphne, find a way to get her to school. Make sure no one finds out she was here."
That does the very last job of shattering her heart into multiple tiny pieces.
He isn't even looking at her as he refers to her like she's a shitty little burden. He is managing her, the same way someone would manage paperwork. Confidential. Disposable. Forgettable.
Daphne nods easily. "Relax, brother. I've got you."
