Chapter 40: A party for actors

Jake Hayes’ POV

A wave of whispers washes over me. It's an uncanny sensation, as if every person in the room is staring directly at me, judging me. The murmurs grow louder, and I can't make out any distinct words, just a chorus of agitated voices. As I walk forward with Aviana holding my arm, the stares become glares, and the whispers grow to hisses. I feel as though I'm walking through a minefield, one that's ready to explode at any moment. The pressure is intense, the tension almost unbearable. It's as if the entire room, every person in it, is against me.

“What is happening?” I asked myself in a low voice. All of the sudden, the music stops. Everyone started to protest, “Who is that woman beside you?! Just how are you related to her? Explain!” It’s like I dug a grave for myself. I'm finding it harder and harder to breathe, every gasp feeling like it's caught in my throat. My legs feel weak and wobbly, like they might give out on me at any moment. A cold sweat breaks out across my f