Chapter 56. The Party’s Over, Princess

2024

Amelia’s POV

I should have known it would backfire.

I had started off thoroughly enjoying the way Adrian’s jaw clenched, the way his grip on my waist tightened as I tossed out sharp little clap-backs, watching them sink into his skin. I had been so focused on irritating him, on proving to myself that I could still get under his skin, that I hadn’t considered the fact that it worked both ways.

And God, did he know how to irritate me?

One cutting remark from him, one sharp, smug little smirk, and suddenly, I was the one off balance. I was the one struggling to keep my expression neutral, to keep my fingers from digging into his shoulder. It was infuriating.

It was annoying that all he’d said was ‘We are exes’ and I was fuming.

I needed another drink.

I turned on my heel and walked away, my pulse still unsteady, my lips pressed into a thin line. I told myself I wasn’t affected. That the heated frustration buzzing under