Vera's pov

I gasped sharply, the sudden chill making me jump to my feet.

The entire table froze for a moment, and I foolishly thought — maybe someone would say something.

Maybe someone would stand up for me.

But instead of hearing an apology or even a little concern, cruel laughter rippled through the room.

Mockery, sharp and merciless, filled the air.

They weren’t just laughing at what happened.

They were laughing at me.

Heat rose to my cheeks — part anger, part humiliation.

I ...