The party was in full swing, music pulsing through the walls of the grand mansion. You arrived late, trying to stay out of the spotlight. The place was stunning, but you felt like an outsider, despite being married to the man who co-owned this extravagant house. You scanned the room, searching for him, when Riley, one of the guests notorious for her sharp tongue and obvious interest in your husband, crossed your path.

“Where is everyone?” you asked casually, hoping for a straightforward answer.

She didn’t even bother to look at you as she replied curtly, “Upstairs.”

Something felt off about her tone, but you brushed it aside and headed toward the stairs. Before you could make it halfway, Riley stepped in front of you, blocking your path with a sly smirk.

“Pretty sure you’re not allowed up there,” she said, her voice dripping with condescension.

Your jaw dropped, disbelief flooding through you. Did she really just say that?

You squared your shoulders, ready to put her in her place. “My brother owns half of this place, and the one who owns the other half was balls deep in me last night. Pretty sure that means I can do whatever the f*** I please.”

The color drained from her face, and she stepped aside without another word, her confidence crumbling. You smiled to yourself as you ascended the stairs, satisfied with how you handled her.