The dining room was bathed in warm, amber light from the crystal chandelier above. A long mahogany table stretched across the centre of the room, set with fine China, silver cutlery, and heavy crystal glasses. The air smelled of roasted lamb, rosemary, and expensive wine.
Victor sat at the head of the table, looking every bit the powerful host. His charcoal suit was immaculate, his expression calm and inviting as he laughed at something one of the guests had said.
"And then my associate tells me the shipment is delayed by two days," Victor said, gesturing with his wine glass. "Two days! Can you believe it?"
The table erupted in polite laughter.
Maria had placed Libby in the seat directly to Victor's right, positioned perfectly so that her arm rested near his. As Libby sat down, she fe
