The cameras flare like fireworks as Katchii steps out of the town car, one heel first, the slit of her gown slicing the air like a secret. She doesn’t look to the crowd. She looks directly at him — already inside, already watching.

Her golden bodice catches the light as she moves like it owes her something. Diamond earrings, velvet hair down her back. She’s too much and she knows it. That’s half the point.

He raises his glass lazily when she enters. Doesn’t smile. That’s the other half of the point.

“Didn’t think you’d show,” she murmurs as she takes the seat next to him — of course they’re seated together. Some cruel twist of event planning or fate.