The words cut through the noise. I turned my head fast. My heart nearly stopped. It was Marcus. He was coming closer to us, moving through the crowd like he belonged there. His eyes locked on Jake’s hand on my waist. I knew this wasn’t going to be easy. My stomach twisted tight. Marcus looked calm on the outside, but I saw the tightness in his jaw, the way his shoulders sat straight. He had no idea Jake knew about us, or at least suspected. And here we were, in the middle of a big event with everyone watching. One wrong word and the whole night could blow up. My dress suddenly felt too tight. The music sounded louder. I wanted to run, but my feet stayed planted. I freed myself from Jake’s grip, stepping back a little. But Jake grabbed my wrist, firmer this time. He faced Marcus directly. “And if I don’t?” People around us started to glance over. A few conversations slowed. I felt eyes on us. My face grew hot. “Jake, stop it,” I said quickly, keeping my voice low. “There are people
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