Lydia's POV
I demanded that Hugo and the press be dismissed early, well before Dominic came down from upstairs. There had to be a flawless setup.
When Dominic entered, he glanced around, frowning. "Where is everyone? Even Hugo?"
I smiled sweetly at him. "I sent them all home early. I thought you'd appreciate some peace and quiet after all."
He glared at me with narrowed eyes, clearly suspicious. Good. Leave him alone. He won't be suspicious about anything soon.
I breathed deeply and moved closer. "Dominic… about all of this stuff going on, I just need to apologize." I spoke low and apologetic. "I know I've caused trouble between you and Ella. I just… I miss things the way they are. I wish I could turn it all around."
Dominic didn't appear to be convinced. Instead, he took out his pho
