David’s POV The ballroom was alive with the hum of conversation and laughter, but I barely noticed it. The bright lights from the chandeliers made everything sparkle, and the crowd around me—elegant, powerful, the cream of New York’s society—felt like a blur. This event was a massive success, as always, but tonight, my mind was a million miles away, on one person. Susan. I’d watched her all evening. She was standing by the bar, effortlessly drawing attention without trying. She had that effect on people—on me. It was hard to believe how much time had passed since we were together. And yet, despite everything, I still felt a pull toward her. She was no longer just my ex-wife. No, now she was my artist. Her work had made a name for itself in the company, and I respected her talent. But i

