Bella leads the way into the bustling banquet hall. She's wearing a pearlescent white dress, and it shimmers and shines under the crystal chandeliers. Avery follows behind her, taking off her shawl and passing it to a coat check girl. Her pale shoulders shine as brightly as Bella's dress.
As she walks through the hall, she catches several men staring at her. Even the doorman can't take his eyes off of her. She straightens her shoulder, lifts her chin, and continues to walk, ignoring the people around her.
"Honey, you're beautiful," Andrew murmurs, grabbing her from behind.
Caitan turns to see what her brother is talking about, and her face contorted with anger. She asks, "Where's your shawl?"
Avery smiles and says, "I took it off when we got here. The banquet hall is quite warm."
"What happened to my dress?" Caitan hisses. "Why did you take the straps off?"
"I was just finishing the job you started," Avery whispers back.
