The chandelier lights scattered brilliance across the grand hall, casting everyone in a glow that looked too perfect to be real. The music had shifted—slower now, sweeter, violins and pianos weaving a melody that practically begged couples to take the floor. My palms were damp against the silk of my gown, but I forced my spine straight as Kristen’s voice brushed close to my ear.

“Dance with me.”

It wasn’t a request. It was the kind of low, confident command that slipped past ...