~Teyana’s POV~

Carol was already sprawled on my bed when I came out of the closet, tugging at the hem of my dress for the fifth time.

“You’ve finally learned taste,” she teased, eyes twinkling. “I swear, this new version of you is a lot more fun. The old Teyana would never wear something this hot.”

I smiled faintly, though it barely reached my eyes. “Guess people change.” It was my stepfather’s political grand event tonight.

She didn’t notice how I kept fidgeting. My fingers ...