The gala hall shimmered with gold and glass, chandeliers spilling light over polished marble floors. The hum of conversation wrapped around Sierra like smoke, thick and suffocating.
She’d dressed carefully tonight, a sleek black gown, neckline modest but figure hugging, her hair cascading in glossy waves. She wanted to look untouchable. Unshakable.
But beneath the silk and perfume, her skin felt raw.
Damien walked beside her, immaculate in a charcoal suit, every step exuding power. His hand brushed hers occasionally, grounding her in a way that was both comforting and claiming. People parted for him instinctively.
Vanessa, in crimson silk, trailed a calculated step behind them, smiling like a queen who had already won the war.
The Opening Salvo
At first, the conversations were ordina
