Elena
The Regency Hotels’ ballroom shimmered under the soft glow of golden chandeliers, the kind of light that made everything look perfect, even things with flaws.
I arrived an hour earlier, just as I'd intended. The air smelled faintly of lavender and polish. The hum of last-minute finishing touches filled the room as decorators adjusted centerpieces, servers set tables, and someone checked the microphone.
I moved through the hall with a tablet in hand, clicking off items that had been finalized, giving instructions, and pretending that my pulse wasn't thudding in my ears.
It was easier to focus on tasks than to think about him.
Or about the message I had deleted the previous night.
Can't wait to see you.
The words had clung to my brain like smoke.
His number wasn't saved on my
