DAXTON POV
The pub’s warm, cozy vibe was doing little to soften the growing storm of drama swirling around us. The dim lighting and wood-paneled walls couldn’t hide the pointed glares and fake smiles being thrown in Maria’s direction. Not that she seemed to care. If anything, she looked like she was having the time of her life, leaning into me as she took in the chaos like it was the best show she’d seen all year.
Stacy, the self-appointed queen bee of the cheerleaders, was holding court at the bar, her laughter loud and calculated, drawing the attention of anyone within earshot. Sherry, on the other hand, was pouting dramatically, her eyes glued to Henry like he was the last prize at the carnival.
Maria noticed. Of course, she did.
"She looks like she’s about to throw herself on
