The reflection staring back at Clara Vance in the floor-to-ceiling mirror did not look like a ghost-designer who had spent the last three years covered in graphite dust and polishing compound.

She looked like a weapon.

The gown Julian had arranged for her was a masterpiece of midnight-blue silk

The smile on Clara's face made Victoria freeze. The heiress took a hesitant step back, her raised hand dropping to her side as confusion warring with her anger.

"Are you insane?" Victoria demanded, her voice losing its venomous edge, replaced by a tremor of genuine unease. "Did you not hear what I

The interior of Marcus Sterling’s chauffeured Maybach smelled of expensive leather and bespoke cedar cologne. It was a scent that commanded respect, designed to intimidate. Yet, as Thomas Vance slid into the back seat, tracking damp street grime onto the pristine floor mats, the atmosphere in the lu