on around Landon fell silent. All eyes turne

He forced a strained joviality. "E

ndon's arm, her eyes flashing with

her lips, but in a mock toast to Landon. Her voice was calm, but it carr

ze sweeping over the curious faces of New Yor

ally breaking our engageme

gh the ballroom, followed by an

his fingers digging into her skin. "Are you insane?" he hissed, his

k of shocked innocence. "Elba, how can you d

mirthless laugh escaped her. "A misunderstanding? Oh,

upon them like a hawk, her face

oice sharp and imperious. "Whatever this is, you will discuss

uture mother-in-law to shut Elba down, to

rson being embarrassed tonight is not me. And as for which home you're referri

loving fiancé. "Elba, I know you're upset with me. I've been distant, and I'm sorry. B

a conciliatory embrace. Elba

id, her voice quiet but dripping

so calmly, struck Land

venomous whisper. "Elba Knight, I suggest you think very carefully about what you

rounding guests leaned in, shamelessly

sive. His thumb stroked the smooth surface of the sand

, terrifying smile. "Threaten me with business, Mrs. Sterling? Are you sure

nned by this new, defiant Elba. "What i

. "I don't want anything. I just want everyone here to know that

posure finally cracking. "Elba, sto

perfectly sculpted eyebrow. "Perhaps y

a single, deliberate tap on t

the message and spoke into

the ballroom, which had been displaying a rota