Chapter 1

Eleanor Vance lived in the small cottage at the edge of the vast Vance estate, it was her choice. Her late husband, Arthur Vance Sr., had been a man of loud pronouncements and even louder ambitions, founder of Vance Holdings, a name that meant power on the East Coast. Eleanor came from old money, quieter money, and after Arthur' s death, she wanted peace.

Her son, Michael, was different. He was Arthur' s son in ambition, but Eleanor' s in a fierce, hidden loyalty. Years ago, Michael, young and reckless, made a mistake, a terrible one that could have destroyed him, destroyed everything. Eleanor had stepped in. She saved him, but the cost was a piece of herself, a permanent limp that ached on cold days.

Michael never forgot. He rose, ousting his own father from Vance Holdings, a ruthless move that shocked many. He became CEO, a titan, feared and respected. And he put Eleanor on a pedestal. No one, absolutely no one, could speak ill of her, question her, or disrespect her. He made an example of Mr. Harrison, a board member who once hinted Eleanor had too much quiet influence. Michael ruined him, financially, socially, completely.

After that, Eleanor retreated further, choosing the cottage. She didn' t want to be a weapon, or a reason for Michael' s fury. She loved her son, but his ruthlessness worried her. She preferred her books, her garden, and the company of Sarah Jenkins, her housekeeper, who was more like family.

Now, Michael was engaged. Tiffany Hayes. He said she was sophisticated, kind. Eleanor had met her only briefly, a whirlwind of bright smiles and expensive perfume. Michael was planning a Legacy Gala, a grand affair to announce their engagement, to present Tiffany to their world. He wanted Eleanor there. She had agreed, for Michael. She would endure the lights and the crowd for him, just this once.

She rubbed her leg, the old ache a familiar companion. Sarah would be by soon. The Gala was tonight.