[Last night — Before the Attack]
Inside the grand hall of the Golden Plaza Hotel, the evening shimmered with luxury—crystal chandeliers, soft music, and guests draped in wealth.
Roseline glided through it all effortlessly. Attention clung to her like an old friend, warm and familiar. Ever since marrying Hugo Bennett, admiration had become second nature, but it was her skill, her charm, and her flawless social presence that kept her at the top even after all these years.
She lifted her glass, taking a slow sip of wine, the ruby liquid catching the golden light. As she lowered it, her eyes locked with a pair of burning ones across the hall.
Ester.
The jealousy in the woman's gaze was almost comical—sharp, unrestrained, and so open that Roseline nearly smiled. It wasn't the first time someone glared at her like that, and it certainly wouldn't be the last. Maintaining the Bennett name came with its share of admirers and enemies. She had learned long ago which ones mattered.
