Mateo frowned. "And who exactly are you to say that?"
Louis's confidence did not waver. He straightened and, for the benefit of everyone watching, took Olivia's hand. From Aurora's position, she noticed that their hands were not actually touching... There was a tiny gap, just enough to avoid real contact while making it look convincing.
"I am Louis," he said evenly. "And I am Olivia's future boyfriend."
Olivia froze, her eyes widening at his words. Aurora nearly dropped her drink, trying not to laugh out loud. Mateo's face darkened instantly.
The air between the three of them grew heavy, and more than a few nearby guests began to glance their way.
Somewhere in the background, the music played on, but in this small corner of the ballroom, it felt like time had slowed.
Mateo looked straight at Louis, his face calm but his tone carrying a quiet challenge. "You are lying. From what I know, Olivia does not have a boyfriend."
