Chapter 4

The Harrington Children's Education Fund Charity Auction was the crown jewel of Manhattan's spring social calendar. In previous years, Alexander and I had attended as honored guests, writing generous checks and mingling with New York's elite. This year, I arrived through the service entrance.

"The uniform is in there," Alexander said coldly, pointing to a garment bag hanging in the staff room. "Victoria thought champagne service would be... appropriate for you."

I stared at him, searching for any trace of the man I'd married. His eyes were distant, clinical, as if assessing a stranger.

"You want me to serve drinks?…