The Rejected True Heiress (Liora and Callum) novel Chapter 134

Liora’s POV

“Let’s begin.”

The principal approached the microphone that was set up in front of the band and started making his announcements. His eyes flicked to me with obvious disdain as he pulled out his note cards, but I pretended not to notice him, or the malice in his gaze.

I pretended not to notice the stares and whispers from my fellow students, too. Especially Callum’s. Although I certainly felt his shock and… whatever that other thing was as he stared at me from across the room.

“As you all know,” Mr. Alder began, his voice echoing through the banquet hall, “this is our first annual Mating Ceremony—after much deliberation, I have decided to make this a yearly tradition for our school.”

The crowd clapped politely, heads bobbing with approval.

“To kick off the event,” he went on, “each mated couple—those who have registered their interest in participating prior to tonight’s event—will perform a special dance. Each dance will last one minute; by the end of the night, votes will be cast on your favorite couple, and the winners will receive an all-expenses-paid date night!”

More applause. I clapped to be polite, but my heart wasn’t in it. Unbidden, my gaze went once more to Bianca and Callum seated across the room, although I quickly tore it away the moment I saw Bianca’s hand move to Callum’s under the table.

My father caught my eye. Even from afar, I swore I could see a glimmer in his gaze, but I looked away before it could linger.

“Now,” the principal went on, “without further ado, let’s begin! The first dance will be performed by Ella Brown and Adam Jackson.”

The first couple approached the space in front of the band. The lights dimmed, leaving only a spotlight on the couple. They looked lovely already—the girl wore an elegant pink ballgown while her partner looked handsome in a tuxedo that was perhaps a touch too large on his skinny frame, but nice nonetheless, and they looked really happy together.

As the couple began to move through their dance, Zane leaned close to me, tapping my shoulder to get my attention.

“What is it?” I whispered without looking at him.

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