The invitation arrived at Dante and Emilia’s apartment the next evening. It was a heavy, cream-colored card with gold leaf: The Monterio Elite Alumni Charity Gala.
Dante was reading in the armchair when the doorbell rang. He opened it to find a woman standing there, draped in a designer coat that cost more than most people’s cars. Serena Vale smiled at him with a predatory sweetness.
"Dante," she cooed, her eyes scanning his simple attire. "It’s been ages. I heard you were back in town... and in quite a precarious position."
Dante leaned against the doorframe, his expression neutral. "Serena. You’re a long way from the heights of the social registry."
"Oh, I’m exactly where I belong," she mocked, laughing lightly. "I saw your name on the guest list for the reunion gala. Most people tho
