The room erupted in applause, glasses raised in unison. But as Caroline brought the champagne to her lips, a flicker of hesitation crossed her face. Our eyes met, and in that fleeting moment, I knew she realized something was amiss. I maintained my smile, a picture of innocence and gratitude, hiding the storm of emotions beneath.

Caroline paused, her eyes narrowing slightly, perhaps reconsidering. But she couldn’t back down now, not without raising suspicion. With a barely perceptible nod of acknowledgment, she took a sip.

Time seemed to slow, the seconds stretching into eternity. As the bubbles danced in her glass, I watched for any sign of reaction. Around us, the guests laughed and chatted obliviously, their spirits high and untouched by the undercurrents of our silent war.