C27 Shattering The Perfect Little Image

My gaze remained fixed on her as my pulse quickened.

For a moment, I forgot we weren’t alone, that dozens of eyes were watching us.

“Are you alright?” Derek’s voice came low and steady, anchoring me back to reality.

I turned to him, forcing a brighter smile than I felt. “Of course,” I murmured, before facing forward again.

Mum was already on stage