"After today, she won't be Kate anymore. Rumor has it Mr. Black is about to drop a bombshell."
"Her father's a criminal, her mother caught some filthy disease from her shady dealings, and she's nothing but a barren hen. Poor Mr. Black, stuck with that trash."
Every word cut deeper than a poisoned blade, leaving my heart in tatters. I curled into myself, hiding my face in the shadows.
"Miss Eva is here! Damn, she's gorgeous! That gown must be a one-of-a-kind French masterpiece, right?"
I raised my head, locking eyes with Eva's triumphant grin.
My throat closed up—she was wearing my mother's gown.
"That's my mother's dress!" My voice cracked as I staggered up and lunged at her.
Damian yanked me back hard. "Kate! What the hell are you doing?"
I glared at him, tears streaming. "Damian,
