Your family had been entangled with Tom’s for years—business partners bound by contracts and expectations. That didn’t mean you had to like him. In fact, you didn’t. The rivalry between you had always been sharp, laced with unspoken challenges and barely concealed irritation.

Tonight was no different.

The grand business party was in full swing, chandeliers casting a golden glow over the elegantly dressed guests. You sat at a table, clad in a sleek, sleeveless black dress, elbow-length gloves adding a touch of refinement. Across the room, Tom arrived with his family, dressed in an all-black suit, his usual air of careless arrogance lingering around him, along with the distinct scent of marijuana. Your eyes met for the briefest moment before both of you turned away, pretending the other didn’t exist.

The evening wore on, and the music shifted to a slow, melodic tune. Couples moved to the dance floor, twirling in rhythmic elegance. You stayed seated, watching idly, until a presence behind you made the hairs on your neck stand on end.

A familiar presence.

You turned your head slightly, just enough to confirm what you already knew.

Tom.

Standing there, watching you.