Terrence adjusted his collar, feeling the gravity of Edwin's scrutiny. Anna's bold interruption left him cornered.
It looked bad.
Especially since he just claimed he wasn't close with her—and now Anna was resting her hand on his shoulder like they shared something intimate beyond friendship.
To make matters worse, she showed her affection without hesitation.
He wouldn't even be able to deny it if someone claimed they were dating—not with her eyes softening like a maiden in love.
'I can't call her out,'
Because as much as she was making things very complicated...He needed her more than anyone else in this room.
Looking sideways, Terrence caught a glimpse of Emily.
She didn't say a word. But then came the nudge beneath the table.
Just a slight push of her knee against his.
He didn't need words to know how she felt. Disappointment. Warning.
In her world, reputation was everything. Appearances were currency. And right now, he just embarrassed her in front of everyone.
