Flora’s POV

I sit in the car, watching the city lights blur past through the window, and for a moment,I can’t breathe.

Did I just do that?

Did I really sit through a dinner with Stanley and Jessica like it didn’t break every nerve in my body? Did I smile? Stay calm? Keep my voice even?

I did.

And I didn’t just survive it… I owned it.

I blink, looking down at my hands, still slightly trembling, but steady enough to clench the edge of my dress. I feel raw inside, like I’ve been skinned emotionally, but on the outside,I looked untouched. That has to count for something.

I glance...