Harley balks, muttering something under his breath as he flashes me a look of pure disgust, a look that hurts like hell, before taking a big swig from his bottle of beer, and Emma flashes him a warning glare before finally looking at me. “Murph, I didn’t— I mean, I know this is—”

“Em, it’s fine.” I force a smile onto my face, brushing off her inability to finish her sentences and her concern with a wave of my hand. But I don’t dare look at Harley, because I know he’ll see straight through me, so I ignore him as best as I can. Even Emma offers me a doubtful look, but I continue anyway, knowing she doesn’t believe a single word coming out of my mouth. “He’s single. He can do whatever he wants. And you two are good together, so …” I try my best at a nonchalant shrug, even though I know I’m not fooling anyone. “Excuse me, I need to use the ladies’ room.”

“Murph, wait!” I hear Emma call after me, but I ignore her, pushing past Harley with a little more force than necessary.

I snake my way through the crowd, desperate for a reprieve from the shame and humiliation that is quickly overwhelming me. I feel hot tears hit my cheeks, and I duck my head, hurrying as fast as I can toward the nearest bathroom as if my life depends on it.

Chapter 33

I’m not sure if it’s the champagne I’ve consumed on an otherwise empty stomach, or the beautiful song playing throughout the expanse of the ballroom, but the longer I sit all alone looking out over the dance floor full of happy couples swaying to the soft music, the more I begin to wonder what the hell I’m even still doing here.

I force myself to look away from Anna and Nash because I don’t think I can bear to watch them share another meaningful kiss as they stare lovingly at one another and giggle softly between themselves. It’s beautiful but sickening at the same time and, of course, I’m envious. Their happiness. That love. It’s all I want. When my eyes find Harley dancing with Emma, his chin resting intimately on top of her head, it’s like a knife straight to my heart. I close my eyes tight, feeling an overwhelming sense of regret settle low in my belly. Even Kevin is dancing with one of Anna’s cousins from Long Island. She’s almost as loud and obnoxious as he is but, to be honest, they’re a perfect fit. I can’t believe I’m actually jealous of Kevin.

With a trembling sigh, I stand and head toward the bar. I need something a little stronger than champagne if I’m going to make it through tonight.

“Hey, you.”

I glance over my shoulder to see Nash smiling at me.

“Oh. Hey.” I smile a real honest smile, turning to him. I take the opportunity to get another look at him. Because Nash in a tux is like a masterpiece in an art gallery—you just can’t help but stare.