Shanghai's Lunar New Year fireworks boomed across the skyline, casting bursts of red and gold over the frozen streets. Ivy Shen stood on the balcony of the penthouse study, watching the sky bloom. Her breath steamed in the air as she clutched a mug of jasmine tea. Tonight was the gala unveiling of Lucian's new art acquisition—an ostentatious ceremony she'd been forced to attend.
Below, the plaza filled with guests in fur coats and tuxedos, their laughter trailing like music over the chilly air. Ivy sipped her tea, forcing herself to relax. She'd handled boardrooms and hospital wards; this was mere spectacle.
A sudden crack—too sharp—snapped her attention. The limousine Lucian had taken earlier was idling at the valet stand. A second later, a sickening hiss rose from under the hood.
“Exp
