The sun had dipped low, casting long shadows across the lawn as the last stragglers of the party gathered their things. The air was warm and golden, filled with the distant sound of children’s laughter and the rustling of gift wrap. Isabelle stood near the patio, her heels sinking slightly into the grass, watching Amelia and Elliott chase each other through the remains of their magical kingdom—half castle, half dinosaur jungle.
It had been a perfect day.
Until the sound of heels on the cobblestone path froze her in place.
Isabelle turned slowly, dread blooming in her chest.
And there she was.
Celeste Bennett stood framed in the archway of climbing roses, her expression cool and composed as always. Her icy blue dress was immaculate, her blonde hair swept back into a style so polished i
