Chapter 4

I stood before the mirror in my suite at The Plaza, examining my reflection with cold detachment. The woman staring back at me wore a crisp white pantsuit—the color of innocence, of beginnings. The perfect contrast to yesterday's crimson silk.

"Are you ready, Mrs. Blackwood?" My assistant knocked softly on the bathroom door.

"Almost," I replied, fastening a single diamond earring. "Is everything set up?"

"The press is already gathering in the ballroom. Every major network sent reporters."

I nodded, satisfied. Of course they had. The scandal of Alexander Blackwood's betrayal was too juicy to ignore.

I checked my watch—9:45…