Estranged Expectations

When it came time to reveal the auction's victors, Astra and Elias returned to their table. Elias glanced at Cole and inquired, "Where are the others?"

Cole responded, "They're dancing. Didn't you see them?"

Elias shook his head. Cole then turned his attention to Astra, who was sipping her champagne, and inquired, "Are you alright?"

Astra nodded and shared, "I am.This isn't the first time she's made such remarks, and I'm certain it won't be the last."

Cole shifted his gaze between Astra and the floor. As the call for everyone to return to their seats echoed, Violet and Lucian rejoined the group. Violet caught sight of Astra playing with Elias' hand.

She called out, "Astra?"

Astra looked up, and Violet apologized, "I'm sorry for my earlier words. I only said what I did out of anger. I felt like you were judging me and looking down on me because of our different backgrounds."