Colter found Cassian near the edge of the mini reception, half-lit by fairy lights and the glow of clinking glasses, like he’d strategically positioned himself where he could observe without being swallowed by the crowd. She slid up beside him, nudging his arm with hers. “You always look like you’re mentally taking notes at weddings,” she said, lips twitching. “Like—hmm, yes, love, very fragile, would not recommend the chicken.” She lifted her glass in a small toast toward Alec and Jon, smile softening. “Kinda wild, though. Ending the year like this.” Her gaze flicked back to him, something unspoken hanging there. “You doing okay? Or are we both pretending champagne counts as emotional processing tonight.” @hxrricvnes








