#Chapter 16: Birthday Betrayal

I opened my mouth to correct the boutique owner, but Kane stepped forward before I could speak. His eyes never left mine as he moved closer. "Beautiful doesn't begin to cover it," he said, his voice a low rumble that sent an unexpected shiver down my spine. The shop owner clasped her hands in delight. "I'll give you two a moment," she said, slipping away with a knowing smile. "Kane," I hissed once she was gone, "what are you doing?" He circled me slowly, taking in every detail of the wedding gown. His usual mockery was absent, replaced by something more intense. "Playing the role everyone's assigned me," he replied, stopping directly in front of me. "Best man, remember?" I shifted uncomfortably under his scrutiny. "Well, now you've seen it. You can go." Instead of leaving, he stepped onto the pedestal, bringing us eye to eye. I was suddenly aware of how close we stood, the mirrors around us reflecting our image from every angle—me in pristine white, him in his dark suit,