When Olympia realized Bryce truly intended to give the bracelet back, a flash of venom crossed her eyes as she looked at Rosamond.
So Bryce still had some feelings for Rosamond after all. She would have to find a way to make him despise her completely.
The party began. Rosamond sat and watched as Bryce attended to Olympia's every need at the table.
Picking out the best dishes for her. Peeling shrimp for her.
Refilling her tea. Pouring her water.
A bitter ache spread through Rosamond's chest.
He had never done any of those things for her. Not once.
She had always assumed it was simply his nature, that he was too proud to bother with small gestures like these.
Now she understood. She simply wasn't worth the effort.
It didn't matter anymore. She had made her peace with it.
All she had to do was endure until the banquet ended, take back her grandmother's bracelet, and walk away, leaving Bryce to Olympia for good.
She would never insert herself between them again.
After a few rounds of drinks, the air inside felt suffocating. Rosamond slipped out alone to clear her head.
She had barely reached the pool when a hand closed around her arm.
Olympia stood there with a half-smile that wasn't quite a smile.