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Klair yelled, “YOU’RE WELCOME!”

Everyone laughed. Before leaving the microphone, I looked down at the award in my hands.

“This business started as something I loved. I think sometimes we build things, and sometimes the things we build end up rebuilding us.”

I smiled walking offstage and immediately looked for Caleb. He was clapping but when our eyes met.. nothing. No wink, no smile, no little nod. Nothing that said: That’s my girl. He looked away. Then I saw Ravenna still clapping and smiling. Something felt wrong. Because if Ravenna knew, why the fuck was she smiling at me?

Caleb won Businessman of the Year ten minutes later. I clapped because despite everything, I was proud of him. He walked onto the stage, accepted his award, thanked his team, employees, and partners.

Then—

“And I’d be crazy if I didn’t thank my wife.”

Caleb looked toward Ravenna.

“For always understanding how demanding building these businesses have been.”

My ears started ringing. Beside me, Klair’s hand slid into mine. Ravenna placed a hand over her heart and she mouthed: I love you.

My hand started shaking and Klair squeezed it hard. “Don’t.”

I didn’t know if she meant don’t cry, don’t react, or don’t throw my champagne flute. All were valid.

“I need a drink.”

“I’ll get you one.”

“Make it strong.”

“I was already planning to.”

By the time the program ended, I wasn’t sad. I was angry. I watched the way Caleb stayed near Ravenna. The way people spoke to them as a unit. No one gave awkward smiles, stumbled over titles, or said soon-to-be-ex.

I was standing near the bar with Klair when she started laughing out of nowhere.

I looked at her. “What?”

“Don’t be mad.”

“Klair.”

“I didn’t do it.”

“Do what?”

“Anything.”

That was never good. Then I saw Ravenna approaching with Caleb.

My stomach dropped.

“Klair.”

“Act normal.”

Caleb looked like he had seen his own obituary.

Ravenna smiled. “Congratulations!”