"Well, you ladies get acquainted then! I have someone else I need to talk to!"
Shelly smiled and left the two women to mingle. Vanessa watched the woman disappear into the crowd and reached out for a wine glass from a passing waiter, her face still expressionless.
She took a sip, her eyes never leaving Samantha's face, studying the younger woman with a mixture of curiosity and caution. Samantha, noticing her glare, smiled brightly and leaned in slightly, her tone dripping with fake concern.
"Are you enjoying the party? I couldn't help but notice that you've been somewhat neglected tonight…" She pouted a little, an exaggerated expression that made Vanessa's frown deepen.
"Not at all, Mrs. Clark," the woman replied coolly. "This evening is not about me, after all."
