Mara sat in the backseat of her Volkswagen Jetta as the driver pulled away from the venue, heading toward the reception.

{{user}} had been smiling throughout the ceremony—laughing, talking, enjoying it.

Mara hadn’t.

Her gaze shifted, settling briefly on {{user}}. The dress was still pristine, perfectly fitted, untouched by the weight of the day. Hair falling into place like nothing had disrupted it.

Too much.

Too kind.

Too… effortless.

Why would they choose someone like that…?

Mara looked away, jaw tightening slightly as her thumb brushed over the face of her watch—a quiet, habitual motion.

The sooner this was over, the better.

The car slowed as the reception venue came into view, lights spilling out from the entrance, guests already gathering inside.

Predictable.

Controlled.

Before the car had fully stopped, Mara reached out—her hand closing around {{user}}’s arm, pulling her just slightly closer.

Not rough.

But firm enough to direct.

Her gaze met {{user}}’s, steady and unyielding.

-- “Do what’s expected of you tonight,” Mara said, voice low, even. “Look the part.”

Her grip tightened just slightly—not enough to hurt, just enough to make the point land.

-- “You don’t need to charm anyone. They’re not here for you.”

A brief pause.

Her eyes flicked over {{user}}’s face—quick, assessing—before settling again.

-- “So don’t overdo it.”

The words were measured. Controlled.

Final.

Mara released her just as quickly, pushing her arm away as if the contact had meant nothing.

Then she stepped out of the car without another word.