Chapter 2 - The Stolen Sparkle|
Julian grabbed Audrey’s wrist, his fingers squeezing hard enough to bruise.
“What the hell does that mean?” he whispered through clenched teeth.
Audrey looked down at his hand on her skin, then raised her eyes to meet his.
“Release me.”
Julian hesitated, caught off guard by the icy authority in her voice, and snapped his hand back.
Camilla laughed, a light, melodic sound designed to draw eyes.
“Let her stay, Julian,” Camilla coaxed, sliding her hand down his arm. “It’s sweet that she wants to witness your big moment. Every man needs an audience.”
As Camilla turned her head, the ballroom light caught the drop earrings dangling beneath her dark curls.
Audrey’s eyes narrowed.
Two platinum tear-drops set with brilliant-cut diamonds. They caught the light with an unmistakable blue-white fire.
They were her mother’s.
The very same earrings that had vanished from Audrey’s master bedroom safe three weeks ago. The ones her mother had worn to her college graduation before passing away.
“Nice jewelry, Camilla,” Audrey said, keeping her expression perfectly unreadable.
Camilla’s hand subconsciously brushed her neck.
“Thank you. A gift from someone who appreciates true elegance.”
Julian flushed red.
“Audrey, stop staring like a bitter child. You’re embarrassing yourself.”
Across the grand ballroom of the Halcyon Hotel, Chairman Malcolm Reed stood near the stage. He caught Audrey’s gaze across the sea of tuxedos and gowns, then casually tapped two fingers against his left cufflink.
The signal.
The ink on the acquisition documents had dried at three o'clock that afternoon.
May you like
Audrey set her glass down on a passing waiter's tray.
“I’m not embarrassed, Julian,” she said quietly. “I’m ready.”
