Chapter 58

Early in the morning, I stood in front of the mirror, letting the makeup artist curl my hair. I had barely slept the night before. My stomach twisted in knots, and I kept biting the inside of my cheek. This was the mayor’s wife’s birthday party—not some neighborhood dinner. It was the kind of event where everyone wore designer gowns and spoke a language made of influence and money. The stylist helped me step into the dress Logan had sent for me the night before. It was a floor-length gown made of pale ivory satin, with a sweetheart neckline and delicate off-shoulder sleeves that rested gently on my arms. The fabric shimmered faintly under the light, like moonlight on calm water. A thin silver belt cinched at the waist, giving shape to my frame, and the skirt flowed gracefully to the ground with every step I took. Around my neck was a dainty diamond necklace—just enough sparkle to catch the eye without being overwhelming. My makeup was soft and natural: rose-tinted lips, lightly blushed