Chapter 69

Nicole Luna Teresa's eightieth birthday was just days away. And what started as plans for a simple family dinner had evolved into something much grander thanks to Luna Xandra's insistence. "It's her eightieth birthday," she had declared with that unmistakable Gatsby finality. "It has to be spectacular." With my temporary leave from the hospital offering a rare free day, I decided to hunt for the perfect gift for Luna Teresa. The mall seemed like the logical place to start. I was browsing through a collection of cashmere wraps when a voice called from behind me. "Nicole?"I turned to find Yelena Tyler standing there. The epitome of polished perfection in her Giorgio Armani business suit and Hermès handbag. "Oh," she said, perfectly shaped eyebrows lifting slightly. "I didn't expect to see you here." She offered me a welcoming smile, but I caught the calculating glint in her eyes. "Long time no see. Would you like to have a cup of coffee with me?" We barely knew each other, having only me