We all settle at the long table in the front. My mom and Archer in the middle, me beside my mom and Ares beside his brother.

"Thank you, everyone, for coming," Mom says, holding her champagne flute. "This day wouldn't have been possible without each and every one of you."

There's a chorus of cheers and clapping.

"Now, I'd like to introduce my beautiful daughter, Emma, who will be saying a few words."

Everyone turns to look at me. I stand, smoothing out my dress. My hands are shaking slightly. Public speaking isn't exactly my thing, but I'd be damned if I give my mother something else to complain about.

"Good evening, everyone," I begin, smiling. "For those of you who don't know me, I'm Julie's daughter."

There's a small murmur of cheers throughout the crowd. A couple of my cousins, I think.

"My mom has always been there for me. Even when things were tough, she never gave up on me. I'm so glad she has a person to lean on now. She's found the love of her life. So, I would like to raise a glass to Archer and Julie."

Most of my words are lies, but the work just the same. The crowd raises their glasses and there's a cheer. I can see the satisfied look on my mom's face. She loves being the center of attention.

I know what kind of speech my mom wants me to give. Someone heartfelt, something that paints her as not just the perfect woman, but the perfect mother as well. I continue my speech, choosing my words carefully.

"Julie is the best mom. She's always put me first, no matter what. She's supported me, encouraged me, and always believed in me. I don't know where I'd be without her. So, cheers to Julie, to the start of a new chapter, and to Archer. Welcome to the family, Archer. May the two of you have many happy years together."

There's a chorus of applause and cheers. I raise my glass and take a sip, relieved that my speech is over. I return to my seat, letting out a breath.

My mom is smiling at me, clearly pleased with my performance.

"Well done, dear," she says, patting my arm. "I knew you'd make a wonderful speech."

But I know she doubted me. She always does. She's just happy I didn't manage to embarrass her.

Selene comes up behind us, knife in hand. "Time for the beautiful newlyweds to cut the cake."

My mom beams, and we all follow Selene to the gorgeous multi-tiered wedding cake.

Selene hands mom and Archer the knife. They both take hold of it and cut a slice. Everyone cheers as they place it on a plate and feed each other. It's a perfect, romantic moment.

We all sit back down as staff bring us a slice of cake.

"You'll have to eat most of this," my mom says to Archer. "I don't think I could eat more than just a couple of bites. It's so sweet and rich. You have to watch your sugar, you know, if you want to keep your figure."

I go rigid at her words. I know what's about to come. My mom turns to me. "Emma, dear. Maybe sit this one out? You could use some fresh air anyway. And the staff is going around with the main courses. Don't you want to try the seafood? You love seafood, don't you?"

And there it is.

I can feel my heart sink. This is just the beginning. The small comments that will get worse. But I can't let her get to me.

I swallow and force a smile. "You're totally right. I don't want to fill up on cake and not get to eat the main course."

I see Ares out of the corner of my eye. He's listening to our conversation, and his jaw is tense.

My mother is pleased, smiling at me. "That's a smart decision."

I stand up and excuse myself. I make my way through the reception and head outside, onto the balcony. The fresh air feels good against my heated skin. I'm so angry, but I'm trying to hold it together. I can't believe my mom was so open with her criticism of me. In front of not only Archer but Ares as well. I could die from embarrassment.

I lean against the railing, taking a deep breath. I look up at the sky, watching the stars twinkle above. It's a beautiful night, but I can't enjoy it. My mind is racing, and I feel like I can't breathe.

I'm trying to calm myself down, but my emotions are all over the place. I can't believe my mom did that. It was one thing to make comments about my weight behind closed doors, but to do it in front of her new husband and his brother? That's a new low, even for her.

I can't help the tears that roll down my cheeks. But I quickly wipe them away when I hear footsteps behind me.

"Emma." It's Ares. His voice is low and filled with concern.

"Hey," I manage, keeping my gaze on the night sky.

"You okay?" he asks, his voice gentle.

"Yeah, just needed some fresh air." I don't dare look at him. I can feel the tears threatening to fall again. I wipe them away with the back of my hand, sniffling.

Ares doesn't reply, but I feel heat radiating off of him as he leans against the railing beside me. The silence between us is heavy.

"Do you wanna talk about it?" he asks, breaking the silence.

"No, not really," I say, sighing. I can't look at him. I know if I do, the dam will break and I'll lose it.

"Okay," he says, his voice soft. I spare a glance his way and that's when I notice something in his hand. A tiny plate with a small piece of cake.

He picks up the fork, spearing a small piece. I think he's about to eat it, but instead he positions it in front of my face.

"Try it," he says, his eyes focused on me.

"I shouldn't," I say, but my mouth waters at the sight.

"It's the best cake you'll ever have. Come on, just a bite," he coaxes.

I cave, opening my mouth and allowing him to place the forkful of cake in my mouth. His eyes flash with something. Arousal perhaps? But no, that's absurd. Right?

The cake is heavenly. Rich, buttery, and not too sweet. I can't help the moan that escapes my lips. Another flash of something in his eyes.

"Good, isn't it?" Ares asks, a grin on his face.

"Yes," I manage.

He takes the fork that was just in my mouth and licks off the remaining icing. And oh my god. Why is that one of the hottest things I've ever seen?

"Are you okay?" he asks, raising an eyebrow. "You seem a little... flushed."

"Fine," I manage, trying to regain control.

"Here," he says, forking another piece of cake.

This time, he brings it to my mouth and watches me as I open for him. He feeds me the cake, and I can't help but moan at the taste. It's even better the second time.

When he goes for a third time, I stop him. "I shouldn't eat anymore."

But he isn't having it. "Eat the damn cake, Emma."

I open my mouth obediently, and he rewards me with a smirk.

As the last of the cake disappears down my throat, I feel like I'm going to explode. But it's not just the cake, it's him. He's so close to me, his body heat enveloping me. There's something wildly erotic about him feeding me like this.

He puts the plate and fork down and turns to me. I'm frozen, unable to move. He reaches out, brushing a stray hair from my face. His touch is electric, sending sparks down my spine. His fingers linger on my cheek, his eyes locked on mine.

Then, his hand moves down, tracing my jawline. I can't breathe, my body responding to his touch. He leans in, his lips inches from mine. My heart is racing, and I feel like I'm on fire.

His fingers trail down my neck, stopping at the pulse point. His thumb caresses my skin, and I can't help but gasp. He smiles, a wicked gleam in his eyes.

He leans in, his breath hot against my skin. "Do you want me to stop?"

"No," I whisper, barely audible. "Wait, yes." I step back. This is wrong, so wrong. "I should go back inside."

His smile fades, and he sighs. "Yeah, I suppose you should."

I brush past him, trying to hide the effect he has on me. I need to get a hold of myself, to regain control. But as I walk back into the reception, I know that's easier said than done.

My mom and Archer are dancing, lost in their own world. A few other couples are out on the dance floor as well. The music is upbeat, and the atmosphere is light and fun. The staff are handing out dinner plates.

I take a seat, grabbing a plate and a glass of champagne. I try to distract myself, eating and drinking, but my thoughts keep drifting back to Ares.

"Mind if I join you?" Carter's voice snaps me out of my thoughts.

Oh shit. Not this guy again.

"Sure, go ahead," I say, plastering a smile on my face.

Carter sits down, giving me a bright smile.

"So, are you having a good time?" he asks, taking a sip of his drink.

"Yeah, it's been great," I reply, trying to sound enthusiastic.

"Good, good," he says, nodding.

I don't know what else to say. I just really wish he would go away and leave me alone.

"I've been meaning to ask you something," Carter says, leaning in.

"Oh?" I raise an eyebrow.

"Would you like to dance?" he asks, flashing me a hopeful smile.

"Um, I'd rather not," I say, hoping he'll get the hint.

"Oh, come on, it'll be fun," he insists, grabbing my hand.

Before I can protest, he's dragging me out onto the dance floor. He pulls me close, his hands on my hips.

I'm uncomfortable, my body stiff.

"Relax. Just go with the flow," he whispers in my ear.

The music changes, the tempo slowing down. I feel Carter's hands move lower, his fingers digging into my ass.

"Excuse me," I say, trying to pull away.

"Oh, come on. Don't be like that," he says, a smirk on his face.

"I'm not interested," I say, glaring at him.

"You'll change your mind," he says, his grip on me tightening.

"Get the fuck off of me," I say, struggling to break free.

But he's too strong, and he won't let go. He smells strongly of alcohol, so I'm assuming he's drunk. But that's still no reason to be acting like this.

"Carter, you're drunk. Let me go," I say, trying to reason with him.

"You're just playing hard to get," he says, laughing. "I love a good chase."

"Carter, stop," I say, pushing against him.

Suddenly, someone yanks Carter back. It's Ares.

"Is there a problem here?" he asks, his voice low and menacing.

"No problem," Carter says, smiling. "Just having a little fun."

"Didn't look like she was having fun," Ares says, his gaze fixed on Carter.

"Oh, come on, man. We were just dancing," Carter says, slurring his words.

"And now you're not," Ares says, his tone leaving no room for argument.

"Fuck, whatever," Carter mutters, staggering off the dance floor.

Ares turns to me, his expression softening. "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine," I say, taking a deep breath. "Thanks for stepping in."

"Anytime," he says, his eyes boring into mine.

There's an awkward silence between us, but it's not uncomfortable.

"I think I'm gonna call it a night," I say, giving him a weak smile.

"Want me to walk you to your room?" he asks, concern evident in his voice.

"No, it's okay. I can manage," I say, waving him off. The last thing I need is for Ares to be anywhere near my room, near my bed. I don't think I can trust myself.

"Alright," he says, sighing. "Goodnight, Emma."

"Goodnight, Ares." I make my way off the dance floor, heading towards the elevators.

I feel Ares's eyes on me, but I don't look back. I need to put some distance between us. If I don't, I might do something stupid.

As the elevator doors slide open, I step inside and hit the button for my floor. As the doors close, I catch a glimpse of Ares, standing there, watching me. And I can't help but feel a tug in my chest.

As the elevator rises, I let out a sigh. Tonight has been an emotional rollercoaster. But at least it's over.

Tomorrow, I'll start fresh. I'll put all of this behind me. I'll be heading home, my mother and Archer will be heading out on their honeymoon, and I will never have to see Ares again.

It's for the best. Really.