Chapter 5 - The Masquerade
The Founder's Gala was a labyrinth of crystal, champagne, and high-society predators. The theme was a Venetian masquerade, which played perfectly into their hands.
When Liana entered the ballroom, the air was sucked out of the room. She wore a backless, liquid-gold gown that clung to her curves like a second skin. A delicate gold domino mask obscured the upper half of her face, but the Sovereign’s Ruby rested prominently on her collarbone, impossible to ignore.
Dominic, wearing a sharp black tuxedo and a matching mask, stood by her side.
"Everyone is staring," Liana whispered, keeping her smile perfectly frozen.
"Let them stare," Dominic said, his hand resting securely on the small of her back, sending a jolt of electricity through her spine. "They’re looking at their new boss."
Across the room, Julian locked eyes with her. Even with the mask, he knew it was her. He looked desperate, pathetic, and dangerous.
"Julian is approaching at three o'clock," Dominic murmured. "This is your part. Distract him. Keep his eyes on you, and keep Vivienne occupied. I’m going for the vault."
Dominic slipped into the shadows just as Julian intercepted Liana.
"Liana," Julian breathed, grabbing her wrist. "You look... incredible. Please, you have to listen to me."
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Liana didn't pull away. She smiled, a cold, predatory curve of her lips that she had learned from Dominic.
"Dance with me, Julian," she said smoothly, leading him toward the center of the floor, right into the sightline of a furious Duchess Vivienne. The distraction was set.
