**Chapter 9**
Gerald kept his hand firm on the small of Lily’s back as they stepped into the grand hall. Crystal lights hung from the high ceiling and threw soft gold across the polished floor. Long tables covered in white cloth stretched through the room. Men in dark tailored suits and women in expensive dresses filled the space. The low music mixed with the sound of glasses and quiet conversation.
Lily felt the air change the moment they entered. Heads turned. Conversations paused. Eyes moved over the short red dress that clung to her body and left her back bare. She kept her chin high even as her pulse quickened. She had been stared at before in clubs and on streets, but these stares carried more weight. These people had real power.
Gerald felt every look. He saw the way the men’s ey
