Fake Smiles

Sammi’s POV

I shower, letting the hot water cascade over me, hoping it will wash away the weight pressing on my chest. But it doesn’t. Every part of me is heavy—my body, my thoughts, my heart. When I step out and dress, Juliet’s already waiting. She looks at me with concern, her eyes searching mine like she can sense the storm swirling beneath the surface. But she doesn’t ask. And thank God for that. Because if she does, I’ll crumble. I’ll fall apart right here, in front of her, and there will be no putting me back together.

We leave for the gallery in silence, but my mind won’t quiet. I keep replaying the messages, the images, Grayson’s words cutting through me like a blade. I need to focus. I can’t let him take this from me. He’s already taken everything else—my trust, my hope, my heart. But this opportunity, this gallery… it’s mine. I won’t let him ruin it.

When we arrive, the woman in charge greets me. Her voice is warm, professional, but I barely register her words.

“Sammi Luxon,