Chapter 4

Alfred and his legal team worked with astonishing efficiency.

Just two days later, a thick forensic audit report landed on my desk.

Over the past three years, Carter had siphoned more than twelve million dollars from the company through fraudulent contracts.

The money had been funneled into accounts under Victoria's name.

He had even purchased a luxury waterfront estate in the Hamptons and a Porsche in her name.

"Ms. Gwen, under the law, all of this constitutes the transfer of marital assets."

Andrew, the Winslow family's chief legal counsel, adjusted his glasses as he spoke in his usual calm tone.

"The moment you authorize us, we can file for an emergency asset freeze."

"Within ten hours, the court can freeze every asset connected to Victoria."

"Not yet."

I took a slow sip of my tea, my eyes resting on Carter's signature.

"Isn't Carter busy preparing for next week's New York Rising Leaders Gala?"

Alfred inclined his head.

"Yes, ma'am."

"Mr. Carter has spared no effort trying to break into New York's old-money social circle. He pulled every favor he had just to secure two invitations."

A cold smile tugged at my lips.

Carter had always dreamed of being accepted by New York's old-money elite.

And in his mind, Victoria was the perfect stepping stone.

He couldn't wait to parade her around at the gala and show the city his beautiful new mistress and his rising success.

If he was determined to put on a show...

The least I could do was give him the perfect stage.

"Prepare the paperwork." I looked at Andrew. "But don't file it until the day of the gala."

I smiled faintly.

"I want my gift to arrive at the exact moment he thinks he's reached the top."

"Understood."

Andrew smiled knowingly and gave a respectful nod.

That evening, Carter came home in unusually high spirits.

Designer shopping bags swung from his hand as he walked through the door.

"Gwen, there's an important business gala next Wednesday."

"Everyone who matters in New York will be there."

He set the shopping bags on the sofa and smiled.

"I picked out a few dresses for you, I want you looking your best when you attend with me."

My eyes drifted to the shopping bags.

I knew exactly why he wanted me there.

I was nothing more than the devoted wife who completed his perfect-family image in front of investors.

The woman he'd actually be introducing to the real power players would be Victoria.

"Daddy, what's in the bags?"

Holding his teddy bear, Noah wandered over and peeked inside.

Carter absentmindedly ruffled Noah's hair before turning back to me.

"Oh, one more thing. The company's still dealing with cash flow issues."

"If you could sign the mortgage papers for the beach house before Wednesday, I'd be able to focus on the gala without worrying about the financing."

The greed in his eyes was impossible to hide.

Disgust churned inside me, but my smile never wavered.

"Of course." I nodded calmly.

"Have the paperwork ready. You'll have my answer before Wednesday night's gala."

Relief washed over Carter's face.

He actually believed I'd fallen for his scheme again.

The smug satisfaction in his eyes was impossible to miss.

What he didn't know was that Wednesday night's gala wouldn't be the beginning of his rise.

It would be the beginning of his nightmare.