"We're in public, Mark," she said, feigning shyness.
"It's our engagement," he replied, his eyes lingering on her, "and you're looking… wow."
Lyvana gave a dry laugh and pushed past him toward her grandmother.
"Grandma," she said softly, bending to kiss her cheek. "You look lovely tonight."
Her grandmother's face lit up at once. She reached for Lyvana's hands, her eyes sweeping over her with open approval. "There you are," she said fondly. "I was starting to worry. Look at you."
She stepped back, clearly pleased.
"This makeover suits you. You look very elegant, you always have."
Lyvana felt a familiar tug in her chest. Her grandmother had always adored her.
They exchanged pleasantries with dignitaries and guests. But this time, she didn't stand silently by his side like before.
She smiled politely at the gathering of glamorous socialites and wives of politicians Clarisse had invited, noting the intricate fabrics and daring cuts they wore.
She smiled, made small talk, even posed for a few photos. Lyvana turned Clarisse's attempt to humiliate her into an opportunity, complimenting guests' outfits and sparking their interest in her fashion house, subtly marketing to the very crowd meant to overshadow her.
When introductions were made, she accepted business cards with polite interest, planning to actually call them later.
Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Mark's jaw tighten. He didn't like it.
Good.
Lyvana slipped away to join Emily for some badly needed drink.
"Well, well… look who finally learned how to dress."
That voice. Lyvana didn't need to turn to know who it was. She turned to face her.
"Clarisse," she said evenly. "I didn't realize you were on the guest list."
Clarisse laughed, a light, tinkling sound that didn't reach her eyes. "Oh, I go where Mark goes. You know how it is."
Her gaze swept over Lyvana. "But I must admit… you look different tonight."
"Technically, it's my party," Lyvana said coolly. "I thought I'd wear something nice."
"Well, I almost didn't recognize you." She leaned in slightly, her perfume sweet and suffocating. "You should thank me, really. I practically made this event what it is."
"Still standing in shadows hoping for a scrap of attention I see."
The flicker of irritation in Clarisse's eyes was delicious.
Before she could answer, Mark appeared, his hand settling possessively at the small of Lyvana's back.
The touch made her skin crawl, but she kept her expression pleasant.
"Everything alright?" he asked, his tone smooth.
"Perfect," Lyvana said. She met his gaze, unblinking. "Your... guest was just explaining how indispensable she is."
Clarisse laughed again, sharper this time. "I was only teasing."
"Clarisse, go mingle," he said lightly.
"Atta boy," Lyvana added, causing Emily to nearly choke on her drink.
For a moment, Clsrisse looked murderous. Then she smiled coldly.
"Of course," she said. Congratulations on your engagement."
She walked away swaying her hips, already searching for her next audience.
Lyvana watched her go, a cold smile ghosting across her lips.
Round one goes to me.
For the longest time, that woman had made her feel small. But tonight, remembering everything that happened the night she died, something inside her shifted. That same hate now fueled her, giving her the courage she'd never had before.
Mark turned to her, lowering his voice.
"Don't be rude, Lyvana," he said, his tone patronizing. "Clarisse has worked hard to make this night perfect for us."
"I'm sure she has," Lyvana said. "She's always been so... dedicated."
Mark studied her for a moment, as if trying to recognize the woman standing in front of him.
"You've changed," he said finally, his voice low.
Before she could respond, someone came and whispered something to him and he rushed of giving her a peck on her cheek.
"Who are you, and what have you done to my best friend?" Emily asked, her eyes wide with amazement.
Lyvana laughed.
"Girl, you just served her a royal shutdown. Two words, and she's practically in therapy now."
"It's about time someone taught her a lesson. Besides…" Lyvana's voice softened. "…it feels good to finally stand up for myself."
"Oh, I like this new Lyvana. Confident, untouchable, and not taking anyone's nonsense." Then she whispered. "Don't turn… but your ex is here."
"Hello, Liv," his voice came from behind.
Lyvana turned with a smile. "Rex? Am surprised to see you here."
He chuckled, shrugging. "Maybe I just like showing up when you look… irresistible.
Lyvana forced a smile. "Careful, someone might think you are trying to seduce me."
Rex's smirk didn't falter. "I always thought you were beautiful before."
"Lets have lunch to catch up. Perhaps over the weekend. My treat."
For the first time, Rex looked genuinely surprised. "Sure. See you then," he said.
When he left, Emily pulled Lyvana closer. "Are you insane? Did you just set up a date with Rex?"
Lyvana smirked. "Relax. It's not a date. I have a plan."
Emily raised an eyebrow. "What plan?"
"I figured the only way to get out of this mess with Mark is to build other allies."
Emily blinked. "And you want Rex as an ally?"
Lyvana's eyes glinted. "Exactly. He's smart, resourceful… and he owes me."
Lyvana couldn't tell her everything just yet.
Emily shook her head, a mix of disbelief and admiration. "So you are really doing this... Not marrying Mark?" she whispered.
"If I can help it."
Emily laughed, half in awe, half in exasperation. "I swear, you're fearless… or crazy."
"Maybe both," Lyvana said, her eyes scanning the room.
Emily leaned closer, lowering her voice. "Well, if you're serious, get a new boyfriend. Someone charming enough to win over Lady Glowen."
Lyvana tilted her head, considering it. "You know… that's actually a brilliant idea. You are a genius, Emily."
"But then where are you going to find someone like that anyway? One who can stand up to the Montclair name and actually make your grandmother think twice about this marriage?"
The sound of laughter from the other side of the room pulled her attention back. Mark stood by the terrace, Clsrisse close behind, laughing with the guests.
Lyvana's jaw tightened.
"I will find someone, don't worry."