QUEENS AND PAWNS
Le Bernardin was the kind of restaurant where silence cost more than noise.
Hushed conversations. Crystal stemware catching light. The wealthy and powerful pretending their money made them untouchable.
I walked in at exactly noon. Black Dior dress that hugged every curve. Louboutins that could double as weapons. Hair swept up to expose the column of my throat.
I looked expensive. Dangerous. Exactly what I intended.
Isabella was already seated. Corner table. Private. She’d chosen well far enough from other diners that no one would overhear, but visible enough that any violence would be immediately noticed.
Smart.
She stood when she saw me. Air kissed both cheeks like we were friends. Like she hadn’t just threatened my son.
“Aria darling. You look stunning. Marriage
