Distractions. Victoria's code for Alexander and whatever complicated emotions he stirred in me. Emotions that threatened the single-minded focus on revenge she'd cultivated since pulling me from the wreckage of my former life.
I started to type a response, then stopped as my private line rang. The number displayed made my heart beat faster despite my efforts at control.
"Alexander," I answered, keeping my voice neutral despite the flutter in my stomach.
"Sapphires have historically symbolized clarity of thought," he said without greeting. "The ability to see through illusion to truth. They seemed appropriate for a woman standing at a crossroads."
I glanced at the blue velvet box, wondering again how he always seemed to know my mind, my situation, my inner conflicts.
"What crossroads w
