As I taped the box and wrapped it with the leftover birthday paper, I realized my hands had stopped shaking.
When I walked back into the rented house an hour later, music was louder, drinks were flowing more freely.
People saw me and went quiet again, like someone had hit the dimmer switch on the night.
I was carrying the big box, tied with a ridiculous bow.
Ryan’s face lit up, relieved and smug.
“There she is,” he said, raising his glass. “See?
I told you, folks, she’s classy.”
Emily hovered near him but didn’t touch him this time.
I set the box on the table in front of him.
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