I glanced at Damian, catching the worry in his eyes.
Was he lying to me earlier?
But before I could make sense of it, Damian shook his head and said, “I just don’t want anything from my past showing up here. Today is about us. Having my ex here—what kind of impression does that leave? What will people think of you, Astrid?”
His tone softened as he added, “I’m only thinking of you, Astrid.”
Astrid’s expression eased slightly, but she still declared, “I’m not worried about appearances. Here in Denver, I’m the one who makes the rules.”
Afterward, she pointed at me and instructed, “Go sit down and watch the ceremony.”
I shrugged and shot Damian a faint, mocking smile before stepping off the stage.
But as soon as I reached the floor, four men in black suits surrounded me and escorted me to a corner seat.
Clearly, they were worried I might make a run for it.
From the stage, Astrid called out, “You’ll sit there and watch quietly. You’re not leaving unless I say so.”
I chuckled softly. “You may not let me leave now, but when you want me gone, I might decide to stay.”
“Shut up!” Damian barked.
I smiled but didn’t say another word. If they wanted to play, I’d play along.