Lilian's POV
Augusto looked down at me with those unreadable dark eyes, and I knew he thought this was all an act. That I was putting on some pathetic show to gain his sympathy.
Clenching my jaw against the pain, I forced myself to stand.
He turned without a word and walked toward the main hall, his broad shoulders rigid with indifference.
I limped behind him, every step sending sharp jolts through my injured knees. But I maintained exactly the right distance - close enough that he couldn't accuse me of lagging, far enough that I wouldn't presume to walk beside him like an equal.
The party guests were still gathering in the elegant hall when we entered. Almost immediately, a sharp voice cut through the air.
"How typical. Augusto makes his fortune and suddenly thinks he can keep everyone waiting." The woman speaking was impeccably dressed, her tone dripping with practiced disdain. "We've been here for ages."
