op for Gideon's arrival. His brown hair swept back in a debonair fashion, and h

of the most exclusive men's boutiques in the city. But this was the reality of the new life he'

e floors, and chandeliers reflecting the glint of his expensive watch.

s, Gideon's mind raced. Once upon a time, he'd been a mere college student with big dre

warmed him, eager to c

tique had to offer, his fingers running over the most expensive fabrics and his discerning eye picking out the most exquisite designs. He env

spoke suit that had caught his eye. "A

he said, gathering the suit with practiced ease. "And for this occasion, I recommend ou

words. He was well aware of the importance of making the ri

g woman with a tape measure draped around her neck. She sized him up with a

ality," she said, her voice thick with a Frenc

ion. "I trust your judgment," he sa

, precise movements. "I will make sure you look like the heir to a fortune, which, of cours

d her in her finest evening gown, her face radiant with love and admiration. He

derneath Gideon's confident exterior, a seed of doubt began to sprout. He knew his love for Olivia

r work, standing back

"It is a work of art, just like you, monsieur. You w

ng the lapel. "You've done a rema

kling with pride. "It is my pleasure, mons

ing smile, but it didn

testament to the fruits of Gideon's ambitions. He felt a rush of power as he navigated t

levator to his opulent apartment. He couldn't help but grin as he entered

in his mind, only a cold cal

art, was a symbol of his acclaimed status and wealth. He poured himself a glass of vinta

panse of New York spread out before him like a jewel-encr

door interrup

alled, his voice sm

aling a slight, nervous-l

slightly. "A message from the Brysons. They req

ntrigued. "A message, you s

courier, sir. He was instructed to deliver

dinner. Olivia had told him days ago, and he had wasted no time in preparing to be the most impeccably dressed attendee

rmation of what he already knew. He was, after all, the rising st