Malrik POV

I forced myself to stay composed as my aunt swept into the venue, her chin lifted in that familiar display of pride, each step radiating confidence. Her broad smile cut through the room as though she owned it.

Then her eyes found mine.

There was no time for questions, no chance for confrontation. The ushers were already ushering us toward our seats, and I had to shove my irritation aside for now.

But then I saw it.

Not only had my section been arranged to include the Mancini, ...