The Groom Who Wasn't Invited

In the days that followed, I handled everything through my lawyer. Our jointly-owned penthouse in the arts district was sold, quickly and below market value. Before the final handover, I found a hard drive Corbin had left in his study—a critical company backup. After a moment's hesitation, I decided to take it to him.

I saw him before he saw me. Through the glass walls of his office building, he was in the lounge, laughing with a few friends and Peyton. I was about to go inside when I heard one of them speak.

"Corbin, word is you and Auden had some drama at the gala. People have been hitting me up, asking if you two finally split."

Peyton's eyes locked onto mine through the glass. Her voice was laced with faux apology, but her gaze was a blatant challenge. "Corbin, this is all my fault. It was my first time at an event like that, I didn't realize... I never should have accepted the package. I feel terrible for causing a fight between you and Auden."

Corbin's voice, dismissive, followed. "It has nothing to do with you. Auden is just overreacting."

One of his friends chimed in, probing. "So, is this for real this time, Corbin? You actually moved out. Are you finally trading up for Peyton?"