Ochieng's steps faltered—just for a heartbeat—but it was enough. Sofia felt it. She knew exactly which strings to pull.
He masked it quickly, his grip firm as he guided her across the dance floor. His voice, when it came, was cold. "You're wasting your time, Sofia."
She smiled. "Am I?"
The music swelled, wrapping them in a cocoon of whispers and stolen glances. Around them, the elites of the city watched, some with curiosity, others with envy.
Linet stood at the edge of the ballroom, fingers clenched around her champagne flute. The sight of Sofia in Ochieng's arms stirred something dangerous inside her.
Adrian leaned in beside her. "Jealous?"
Linet shot him a glare. "Shut up, Adrian."
On the dance floor, Sofia's breath was warm against Ochieng's ear. "I know who killed your parents."
His grip on her waist tightened. A lesser woman would have flinched, but Sofia only smirked.
"I don't play games, Sofia."
"Neither do I."
For the first time in years, Ochieng felt the crack of something buried deep. His past. The wounds he never allowed to heal.
The song ended. He released her immediately, stepping back as if she were poison. But the damage was done.
Sofia tilted her head. "Meet me at The Mirage Hotel. Tonight. Midnight."
Ochieng didn't answer.
She smiled knowingly. "I'll be waiting."
Then she turned and disappeared into the crowd, leaving behind the scent of jasmine and a storm in Ochieng's chest.