was filled with New York' s high society, the air buzzing with champagne and speculatio

epting congratulations and compliments as if they were already the masters of the house. They were playin

, their heads bent over a phone. A moment later, Andrew looked up, his e

ugh the glittering crowd. Guests turned to

he hissed as he reached me

g about, Andrew," I said calmly, t

d you hired thugs to attack her on her way here. She said you

ess the absurdity of the

was sharp

h the guests. The sound of my own shock echoed in my

s artfully torn at the shoulder, her hair a mess. Tears streamed do

kill me!" she sobbed, a pi

th utter contempt. He raised his

e! To think I ever considered marrying a woman like you. It's

, a united front of righteous fury, with Maria trembling in their protection. They expected me to

," I

but it carried thr

with smirks on their faces,

e stage where the band had been playing. I took the microphone from the

k you all for coming to celebrate my 21st birthday. My fa

ion build. I could see the

protégés," I said, my eyes sweeping over the three of the

. "Tonight, I am thrilled

aying a simple birthday message, flickered to life

a strong jaw. He stood with a quiet confidence that radiated power. The c

e crowd. The Lesters were legenda

e foot of the stage. The color had drained from Ethan's face

to my party

ad just witness