The week leading up to the gala had been uneventful, at least on the surface. Mark and I continued to operate in our strange limbo—cordial but distant. Mark was quieter than usual, his mood seemingly improved but distracted, as if he were bracing himself for something. He buried himself in work, and whenever the topic of the gala came up, it was brushed aside with the same quick, clipped responses.
I did my best to avoid bringing up the event directly with him, taking any questions or logistical concerns to Edward instead. It was easier that way, sparing us both from an unnecessary confrontation. He gave no hints about Mark's odd reaction, instead focusing on logistics and reminding me that everything about this evening was an opportunity to solidify Rowley Enterprises' reputation.
