MAYA

"Thank you, Isabella.”

I could still hear her words echoing in my head. They shouldn't have affected me, but they did.

I looked at Silas. He was already watching me, concern lingering quietly in his eyes. I looked away before he could read anything on my face. Silas started walking toward me, clearly intending for us to head to the other table together. Instead, I walked ahead without him.

The large table stood out in the restaurant, making us impossible to miss. People were still stealing glances in our direction, some continuing to take discreet photos while others whispered among themselves.

"The entire Blackwood family is here."

"I've never...