Chapter 23: Intimacy and Confrontation at the Gala
(Third Person's POV)
Chloe moved through the crowded ballroom with the icy precision of a queen guarding her throne. She positioned herself firmly beside Victoria Thorne, effectively becoming a human shield against the onslaught of social climbers.
A short, balding banker approached, clutching a flute of champagne. He opened his mouth, likely to bore Victoria with talk of interest rates.
Chloe cut him off before he could speak. She stepped forward, her smile sharp and devoid of warmth. She placed a hand on his shoulder, turning him away with a force that belied her slender frame.
"Mrs. Thorne is exhausted from the greetings, Mr. Henderson," Chloe said. Her tone was polite but final. "I'm sure you understand."
She returned to Vi
