Irvin's POV
The Velvet Crown pulsed with its signature extravagance and sparkle.
Meridian's elite mingled throughout the space, nursing premium drinks and exchanging meaningless chatter. I walked through the entrance, my face betraying nothing, though my mind churned with turbulence I couldn't settle.
Caroline appeared before me in seconds, her brilliant smile illuminating everything around her. "Irvin!" she called out, wrapping her arms around me. She pressed her lips to mine with quick intensity, a calculated show that captured everyone's attention.
Murmurs and stares rippled through the crowd.
Everyone was clearly speculating whether the notorious couple with their endless cycle of breakups and reunions had reconciled once again.
That was our pattern—Caroline and I always gravitated back toward each other, even when it was purely for show. But tonight, I felt nothing. No rush, no gratification.
"Miss me?" Caroline asked, clutching my arm while pressing closer.
