The final notes of the waltz faded into silence, and Kirk guided Kimi away from the dance floor with practiced elegance. His hand remained firmly placed at the small of her back as he led her through the crowd of distinguished guests, stopping before a small gathering that made Kimi's stomach tighten with nervous energy.
Kimi and Kolton's parents stood in an intimate circle, their conversation halting as Kirk approached with confident strides. The introductions flowed smoothly, though Kimi could feel the undercurrent of tension crackling beneath the polite exchanges.
Valencia's piercing gaze swept over Kimi with barely concealed disapproval, her lips pressed into a thin line that spoke volumes about her feelings regarding this unexpected pairing. The older woman's eyes held a coldness that made Kimi shift uncomfortably, though she maintained her composure and offered a warm smile in return.
