The VIP booth fell into an abrupt, unnatural silence. Even the pounding bass from the speakers outside seemed to dull, as though the room itself had decided to listen. Glasses hovered midair. Smiles froze.
Lucien was the first to speak, his brows drawn together in confusion. "What are you talking about?" he asked sharply. "You two are no longer together. I'm pursuing her too, and whoever wins, wins."
Sienna looked from one face to another, clearly lost. Her friends mirrored her confusion, whispering among themselves. Instinctively, she threaded her fingers through Frederick's arm, seeking reassurance.
For a brief second, something like realization flashed across Frederick's face, then he smoothed it away with a forced, brittle smile.
"What I mean," he said carefully, "is that
