Chapter 2

Julian visited Ava a day later. The penthouse felt like a cage.

He tried to explain Seraphina. "She was there for me, Ava. Years ago. When I almost lost everything."

Ava stared at her bandaged hand, the skin beneath throbbing.

"And the gala?" she asked, her voice flat. "My burn? Maya?"

Julian waved a dismissive hand. "The gala was unfortunate timing. Seraphina's return... it was a shock."

He glanced at her hand. "It' s just a burn. It will heal."

As for Maya? "Assistants are replaceable, Ava."

Then, his eyes narrowed. "Don't tell me you're going to be difficult. You knew what you were getting into. Don't pretend you weren't interested in the money."

Heartbreak warred with a rising anger. "I never cared about your money, Julian."

He scoffed.

Ava felt a deep ache, a yearning for her family. Her father, always a man of integrity. Her brother, principled and brave.

A small, unmarked package arrived later. Inside, a specialized burn salve and a small, folded note.

I heard what happened. This will help the burn. If you need to get away, I can help. L.

Liam. Liam Walker. Her college sweetheart, the environmental lawyer Julian had pressured her to leave.

Tears welled in Ava's eyes. Liam, still kind, still caring.

A new assistant appeared, appointed by Julian. A polite, efficient woman whose eyes were too watchful. A spy for Seraphina, Ava was sure.

Seraphina visited again, a few days later.

She wandered the penthouse, her eyes cataloging everything.

She stopped at a small, antique music box on the mantelpiece. A gift from Ava's late grandmother. Delicate porcelain, painted with tiny birds.

"How lovely," Seraphina said, picking it up. Her fingers seemed to tighten.

"Oh, dear."

The music box slipped. It shattered on the marble floor.

"Clumsy me," Seraphina said, a small, satisfied smile playing on her lips.

Something snapped in Ava.

Her father, security-conscious, had insisted on Krav Maga lessons years ago.

Instinct took over.

Ava moved, fast. She grabbed Seraphina's arm, twisted it behind her back, and slammed her against the wall.

Seraphina shrieked, a theatrical, piercing sound. "She's attacking me! Julian!"