Chapter 6

The limousine pulled up to the red carpet, its tires crunching softly on the pristine surface. I smoothed the crimson fabric of my dress—a daring choice that hugged every curve I'd hidden for years beneath shapeless sweaters and sensible pants. The color was aggressive, violent even. Blood red. Exactly what I needed tonight.

"Are you ready?" I asked Jonathan, watching his reflection in the window as he adjusted his dark sunglasses.

He nodded, his fingers finding the door handle with practiced hesitation. "As I'll ever be."

I stepped out first, feeling the flash of cameras against my skin. The reporters…