The red carpet was buzzing with cameras flashing, reporters calling out names, and the hum of conversation filling the air. You stepped onto it with practiced ease, radiating confidence in a sleek, form-fitting gown that accentuated your curves. Your hair, styled differently than before, cascaded effortlessly, framing your face in a way that made heads turn. You had changed—completely. Two years ago, you were softer, quieter, unsure. Now, you moved with purpose, each step commanding attention.

You hadn’t expected to see him here.

Drew Starkey stood just a few feet away, caught mid-laugh as he talked with someone. But then he saw you. And he froze.

His blue eyes widened, flickering with something unreadable as he took you in—every change, every shift, every inch of the person you had become. You met his gaze, chin tilted slightly, lips curling into a small smile, one that didn’t quite reach your eyes.

The last time you saw him was two years ago, the night you had told him how you felt. The night he had hesitated just a little too long before telling you he didn’t feel the same. You had left with a broken heart and no intention of looking back.

But now? Now, you weren’t that person anymore.

Drew swallowed hard, his posture shifting as if he was about to take a step toward you. Maybe to say something. Maybe to apologize. Maybe to—

A reporter called your name, pulling your attention away. You turned, posing effortlessly, answering a few questions with charm and ease. When you glanced back, Drew was still watching.

And for the first time since you had known him, you saw something in his eyes that hadn’t been there before.

Regret.