After accompanying Drake parents around the banquet hall—where every guest was a longtime friend of the Drake family—Samantha couldn't help but notice how her unprompted compliments brought a pleased glow to Mrs. Drake's face.
Several rounds of toast later, Samantha's cheeks flushed as red as a ripe pomegranate.
Yet when she scanned the room, Drake was nowhere to be seen.
Once again, he had left her stranded in the spotlight—and once again, it was all because of Sarah.
"Sarah, it's been a while.
Mind if we talk alone?"
Samantha approached Sarah, who was seated in a quiet corner with Ryan, offering her a faint, practiced smile.
Ryan, well aware of the complicated history between the two women, felt awkward lingering.
With a doting chuckle, he squeezed Sarah's arm lightly.
"You two catch up.
I'll step outside for some air."
Sarah nodded obediently, playing the part of a smitten lover to perfection.
The sight drew a wry smirk from Samantha.
