The moment our first dance ended, the applause of the gathered crowd seemed to sweep over us like a wave, filling the grand hall with a warmth that rivalled even the glowing chandeliers.
Lydia and I exchanged a glance, her hand still firmly in mine, and a shared smile passed between us. For just a moment, the world was still, but it didn't last.
"Alright, enough of the mushy stuff!" Riley's voice rang out, teasing and loud, cutting through the applause like a dagger.
She was already striding towards the dance floor, Seraphine following close behind, carrying one twin while the other clung to her leg like a particularly mischievous barnacle. "Time to get everyone dancing before this turns into a staring contest!"
The crowd laughed, and before I could process what was happening, Riley had grabbed my free hand and dragged me back onto the dance floor.
