remorse, only veiled provocation.
Mitchell noticed Bethany’s smug tone, too, and his expression darkened. He snapped at her impatiently, “Know your place. Heather doesn’t like you, so stay away.”
Bethany let out a coquettish laugh. “She might not like me, but some people do,” she teased, casting a bold look at Mitchell and winking.
Mitchell swallowed hard, his Adam’s apple bobbing. He grabbed his glass and downed the drink in one gulp, avoiding her gaze.
Heather watched the exchange, her chest tightening as if a cold hand had clenched her heart. Without a word, she stood and headed toward the restroom.
Mitchell quickly followed, leaving Bethany behind, now surrounded by a group of admirers.
“Bethany, your dress is stunning! And those earrings—gorgeous!” someone gushed.
Bethany tilted her head proudly. “Of course. My boyfriend gave me these. Only the best for me.”
Her boast drew another round of admiring murmurs.
“Those earrings look like they’re from the same set as Ms. Longstaff’s jewelry. Maybe your boyfriend and Mr. Bennett bought them from the same store.”
Heather paused mid-step, her peripheral vision catching the glint of her diamond bracelet. She yanked it off and clenched it tightly in her fist, the stones digging into her palm until it hurt.
