ver. The excruciating physical pain completely dispelle

ed to the dressing table and gazed at herself in the mirror-pale, but resolute. Her eyes fell

amond. It was a transaction, secured by a fla

't a promise,

earring landed softly next to the velvet jewelry box, making a crisp cl

, she pulled out a worn leather folder from the bottom. Inside were her Columbia University diploma, Christie's auctioneer

e also on the shelves. She kept them all. From the back, she took out her pre-wedding clothes-an old pair

fawning responses. Chloe knew perfectly well what Carla had s

underestimation has now bec

uitcase. That sound

l suitcase behind her. Mrs. Gabow was the fir

ight's dinner-" Her voice traile

ptly ceasing. "Are you leaving?"

placing her hand domineeringly on Stella's

laced with malice. "Running away won't make

her eyes. "I didn't do anyt

augh. "Go and tell Mr. Carlisle about

can Express card, held it between two fingers, and flicked

hloe said coldly,

froze. "You'l

stepped into the elevator, "is tha

r close

e of weightlessness wash over her. It was

The doorman hurried to open the door. The

raised her hand on the side of the road

dusty dressing table. Her life's work, a c

in the distance. The city's neon glow reflected in her eyes. For the