Chapter 36

“You said I could choose anyone, right?” Lily’s voice was calm, almost teasing, but there was a glint in her eyes that set Marina on edge. The hum of conversation in the circle dimmed, people leaning closer to catch what she’d say next. Marina’s confident smirk froze as Lily’s gaze slid, slow and deliberate, across the group—until it landed on David. The pointed stare was unmistakable. Marina’s breath caught. She had invited this dare to humiliate Lily, but now the tables seemed to be turning. The very thought of Lily kissing David—here, in front of everyone—made her stomach twist. This was supposed to be her night. David, on the other hand, felt the tension in his shoulders ease. If Lily kissed him, it would spark gossip, yes, but it wouldn’t harm him. She was his wife, even if no one here knew it. In fact, it might even quell the divorce rumors. For the first time that evening, a faint satisfaction crossed his features. But then— Lily smiled. Not softly, not coyly—this was a challeng