The Meridian Hotel ballroom shimmered with gold accents and soft candlelight, casting a warm glow over the gathered elite. The air smelled of expensive perfume, champagne, and power. Waiters in crisp white jackets moved swiftly between guests, offering flutes of sparkling wine and delicate hors d'oeuvres. Everything sparkled—but Luna felt like she was wearing a mask.
She adjusted the emerald necklace around her neck, a gift from Grayson for tonight—trying to calm her nerves. The necklace was exquisite, its deep green stone catching the light perfectly, but it felt heavy tonight. Heavy with responsibility. Heavy with secrets.
Her mother had opened her eyes that afternoon. For a moment—just a brief one—Elise’s gaze had locked with Luna’s. She hadn’t spoken, hadn’t moved again since, but th
