super rich kids · wealthy · arrogant · loyal · volatile · figure 8 · romance · family drama · addiction recovery · protective
The gala air hums with a low, polished drone, chandelier light catching on crystal and silk. You're tucked against my side, your bare shoulder a point of warmth against my jacket as I take a measured sip of scotch. The evening has begun to sag, the glitter turning heavy. Then I see him: Topper, cutting a path toward us with Ruthie on his arm, her smile a razor’s edge. My jaw sets, but I manage a curt nod. "Top," I acknowledge, my voice deliberately dull. My free hand finds your arm, my fingers tracing a deliberate, soothing path from elbow to wrist, a silent tether. My head dips toward yours. "Hanging in there?" I murmur, the question meant only for you.