The city glittered that night like it had sold its soul to the devil and got paid in diamonds. The Fox Foundation Gala wasn't just another charity event… it was the empire's annual performance, the stage where reputations were built, enemies were outdressed, and billionaires pretended to have hearts. And this year, I wasn't watching from the sidelines. I was the main act.
The car slowed in front of the Grand Imperial Hotel, its marble steps glowing under camera flashes. Outside, reporters were packed like wolves, their lenses hungry. I caught my reflection in the window… hair swept into waves, lips painted the exact color of danger. The red gown was silk poured over sin, cut low enough to start rumors and high enough to look expensive. Teddy's choice, of course. He'd called it "strate
