Fews hours later, the gala was already coming to an end. The room was buzzing with laughter and violin solos as Freya stepped aside near a cocktail table to make notes.
Ariel, seemingly by coincidence, approached with a glass of red wine in hand.
"Oh, Freya! I didn't see you there…"
She turned immediately, hand tilting just enough to send the full glass splashing across Freya's front.
Deep red bloomed across her white gown. And gasps erupted among the crowd around them.
Ariel gasped too. "Oh my God, I'm so sorry! These heels…"
Freya's jaw locked. The cold wine soaked through her body.
Arnold had turned at the commotion, staring blankly.
Freya forced a tight smile. "It's fine. Accidents happen."
"Let me help." Ariel began, reaching for a napkin she had no intention of using.
"I've got it," Freya snapped, already turning.
She stalked toward the restroom as rage and embarrassment twisted in her gut.
