The party hummed with music and polite chatter, but the energy felt heavy. Laughter floated across the room like a fragile veil over yesterday's incident, as if everyone was pretending nothing had happened. Elara moved carefully among the guests, smiling politely while her mind replayed every awkward glance, every whispered comment.
"Hey, Elara," Daniel's voice cut through the noise. He leaned casually against a doorway, smirk firmly in place. "Surviving this circus, or pretending like everyone else?"
Elara frowned. "I'm surviving. That's enough for me."
Daniel chuckled, his tone teasing. "Surviving… sounds about right. Always so proper, so careful, so… perfectly Elara. I've got to ask—do you even know how to have fun, or is that too much trouble?"
Elara's brow furrowed. "Excuse me?"
He leaned closer, mockingly earnest. "I mean it. Look at you. Married to Adrian now, walking around like life's little crown princess. Did you even fall for him, or did you just… calculate it? You know, one more neat little box checked in your carefully organized life?"
Elara's stomach tightened. "Maybe I don't owe you an explanation."
Daniel's smirk widened. "Oh, I don't expect one. But come on—don't tell me this isn't entertaining to watch. You, trying to balance marriage, expectations, and… whatever your perfect life looks like. It's hilarious."
Elara felt a flush of irritation. "Hilarious? You clearly have too much time on your hands."
He leaned back slightly, grinning. "Time? Maybe. But it's fun to observe. I mean, here you are, the picture of composure, married to someone who could probably drive you crazy in five seconds flat. Admit it—you're terrified he'll ruin your perfect little plan."
Elara's fingers tightened around her clutch. "And what if I am? What's it to you?"
Daniel laughed softly, clearly enjoying himself. "Exactly what I expected—defensive. It suits you. But seriously, think about it—one impulsive argument, one misstep, and your neat little world could collapse. Don't you ever wonder what you're doing?"
Before Elara could respond, the host clapped loudly. "Everyone, gather around! It's time for the gender reveal!"
Guests shuffled toward the central table. Balloons floated at the ceiling, confetti cannons sat at the ready, and the cake gleamed under the lights. Elara sighed, hoping the spectacle would distract Daniel and anyone else from noticing her discomfort.
The confetti burst in a cloud of pink. "It's a girl!" someone shouted. Cheers erupted. Friends congratulated the parents-to-be, some clapping, others whispering excitedly. Elara forced a smile, watching the mix of genuine joy and subtle judgment.
Daniel leaned in, lowering his voice, smirk still in place. "A girl… how fitting. Sweet, delicate… just like someone's perfect little life. You must be thrilled to be her role model—or terrified she'll see through your carefully managed act."
Elara bristled. "Maybe I'll just enjoy my life without your comment."
Across the room, Adrian's eyes locked on them. He didn't move immediately, only observed—jaw tight, hands subtly clenched. His calm exterior masked the surge of jealousy boiling beneath as Daniel mocked her, teasing about her marriage.
Finally, Adrian approached. Calm, controlled, commanding: "Elara, we should go."
Elara frowned. "Now? Right in the middle of—?"
"Just for a little while," he said lightly, extending his hand. There was no room for argument. Reluctantly, she allowed him to lead her out, leaving Daniel smirking behind her, eyes flicking with quiet frustration.
Outside, Adrian exhaled softly, forcing his expression into casual neutrality. "Needed some fresh air," he said, hiding the jealousy that had compelled him to intervene.
Elara raised an eyebrow. "Fresh air? Convenient timing—showing up just as I was being mocked about… everything."
"Coincidence," he replied smoothly, faint control in his smile. "Nothing more."
As they walked, Elara's mind spun. Daniel… so cruel. And Adrian… why does he have to intervene every time? He's protective, yes… but controlling too. How do I even explain this marriage to anyone if they ask? Better that no one knows the truth. Maybe it's simpler this way.
By the time they reached home, Adrian's hold on her hand was casual, comfortable. He had hidden the jealousy and possessiveness that had driven him to pull her away, letting her believe it was nothing more than a walk outside. Elara, unaware of the silent battles, only felt the quiet comfort of his presence.