The sky over Paris broke open just past noon, mirroring the absolute devastation that had swallowed Julian Thorne.

What began as a heavy, oppressive mist quickly turned into a torrential downpour. The rain fell in sheets, washing over the wrought-iron gates of the Laurent estate, turning the grave

The rain hammered relentlessly against the nylon of Serena's umbrella, drowning out the sound of Julian's ragged breathing.

She stared at the leather folder in his trembling hands. Fifty-one percent of Thorne Luxuries. The company Julian had sacrificed their marriage for, the empire he had priorit

The week leading up to the launch of *Laurent Luminescence*, Serena’s debut high-jewelry collection, was a masterclass in controlled chaos.

The Laurent Group’s flagship boutique on the Champs-Élysées had been closed for days, undergoing a massive, multi-million-euro renovation to prepare for the g