Ethan's Pov.
The ballroom glittered like a glass cage.
Gold lights dripped from the chandelier, spilling across the marble floor, catching the shimmer of sequins, champagne, and polite laughter. It was supposed to be a celebration — Cole Enterprises' annual gala — but all I could think about was how suffocating the air felt.
My tie was too tight. The wine in my hand had lost its taste. Every conversation blurred into static, a loop of flattery and false smiles.
Until I saw her.
Tracy.
She stood near one of the tall windows, a soft glow falling across her face. Her hair was loose tonight, framing her in a way that made her look softer — yet somehow stronger. The pale blue dress she wore was not loud or meant to impress, but it did something better. It drew the eye without trying.
And my eyes had not looked away since.
Nathan was beside her, saying something that made her laugh — that quiet, genuine laugh I'd heard only once before.
