The tears streaming down Kimi's face hadn't stopped since she descended the staircase. Her friends exchanged worried glances as they watched her silent breakdown.
"Kimi, what's wrong?" Olive's voice carried genuine concern as she gently touched Kimi's trembling shoulder.
The question hung in the air like a weight. Bennett stepped closer, his brow furrowed with worry. "Did someone hurt you up there?"
Kimi could only manage a weak shake of her head. Words felt impossible when her throat burned with suppressed sobs.
The party's music and laughter felt like mockery now. Every sound grated against her raw nerves. She couldn't bear another second in this place.
"Please take me home," she whispered to Olive, her voice barely audible above the celebration around them.
Olive didn't hesitate. "Of course. I'll have my driver take you first, then I'll head back to my place."
"I'm coming too," Rylie announced, her protective instincts kicking in.
