Vanessa's smile was sharp. "Oh, I've heard so much about you." Her gaze swept over Hazel, lingering on her scar. "You're even more... interesting in person."
Hazel's jaw tightened. "Thanks."
Vanessa laughed, a high, fake sound. "I'm just kidding. I mean, you must be so brave, going out in public like that. Without a mask or anything." She tilted her head. "I could never. I'd be so embarrassed."
Dom set down his fork. His expression stayed calm, but his eyes turned sharp.
Vanessa didn't notice. She was too busy playing to the room, her voice carrying. "But I guess you get used to it, right? People staring? Whispering?" She patted Nicolas's chest. "He's so sweet, you know. He never told me how bad it was. He always said you were beautiful."
Nicolas's smile was tight. "I meant it."
"Of course you did, baby." Vanessa patted his cheek. "You're so kind. Too kind, really." She looked back at Hazel. "Leaving him at the altar, though. That was cold. Even for someone like you."
