Mikhail
The Grand Palladium Hotel rose from the city's heart like a monument to bygone elegance. It was exactly what I'd expected, opulent, crowded. Doormen in burgundy uniforms ushered an endless stream of guests into the palatial lobby beyond.
"Remember what we discussed," I murmured to Liliana as Muffy, my driver pulled our armored Mercedes up to the circular drive. Through the bulletproof glass, I watched valet attendants in crisp white jackets move with the synchronized precision of a ballet company, their every gesture was calculated to project competence and discretion.
Liliana's hand found mine across the leather seat, her skin was cold as winter despite the warm October evening. She looked absolutely breathtaking in her midnight blue gown, Italian silk that hugged her every cur
