The moment the words left Audrey's mouth, she felt Rainey flinch. It was obvious—Rainey had absolutely no desire to take another glass of wine to the face.
Taking in her obvious panic, the mockery in Audrey's eyes deepened. "Drop the act. Aren't you afraid I'll take you up on that offer? Want to see how many more slaps or drinks you can take?"
"Audrey!" Arthur roared, furious at her sheer audacity. "Don't think you can do whatever you want just because Joaquin is protecting you! Rainey is sick! Not only is she forgiving you for what you just did, but she's also apologizing! What kind of attitude is that?"
Audrey frowned, about to snap back, but Joaquin firmly pressed her head against his chest. He wrapped his arms tighter around her. "This isn't the right environment for Audrey to stay in tonight. I'm taking her home. Enjoy your celebration."
Without waiting for a response, he grabbed her arm and practically dragged her toward the door.
"Joaquin!" Seeing him actually leaving, Rainey panicked and lunged to grab his sleeve. "Don't go, please?"
She knew exactly why these A-listers were at her homecoming party. On the surface, they were paying due respect to the Sinclair family. But in reality, every single person was here because they knew Joaquin Judd would be here. He was the true VIP. If he left, what was the point of the party?
She bit her lip, looking desperate. "Please, you and Audrey both need to stay. I'm begging you. Just give me a chance to properly treat Audrey's wounds, okay?"
The sincerity in Rainey's eyes looked incredibly real. Joaquin hesitated, his brow furrowing. "Alright."
At the end of the day, they were family. If they could resolve this ugly feud tonight, it would be for the best.
He glanced down at Audrey. "Tonight is Rainey's homecoming party. You really should stay."
Audrey yanked her arm out of his grip. "Stay if you want. Don't make decisions for me. I'm covered in dirt and wine. I hardly fit in at such a high-class event."


VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABEL
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Moment I Realized I Can't Lose You