Chapter 45 - The Lion’s Den
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Monaco glittered like a diamond scattered across the edge of the Mediterranean Sea. The cliffside casino where the Zenith Gala was being held looked like a fortress of glass and steel, heavily guarded by men in sharp suits with distinct bulges under their jackets.
I stepped out of the hired black town car, the cool sea breeze catching the slit of my crimson dress. Camera flashes instantly blinded me as the valet took the keys, but the paparazzi were kept strictly behind a velvet rope.
"Audio check," Audrey’s voice whispered directly into my earpiece, crystal clear. "I have visual on you from the exterior cameras. You're looking good."
"I feel naked," I muttered under my breath, flashing a polite, empty smile at a passing diplomat as I handed my forged invitation to the security checkpoint.
The guard ran the barcode under a scanner, patted down my velvet clutch, and nodded respectfully. "Welcome to the Zenith Gala, Ms. Rostova."
I glided into the main ballroom, and the sheer opulence of the event hit me like a physical wave. Chandeliers made of thousands of Swarovski crystals hung from the domed ceiling. A string quartet played softly in the corner, drowned out by the low hum of dangerous people making multi-million dollar deals over champagne.
"Target acquired," Audrey's voice buzzed. "Balcony overlooking the roulette tables. Two o'clock."
I slowly turned my head, maintaining the facade of a bored socialite.
Standing on the mezzanine, holding a glass of scotch, was Julian Vance. He looked eerily like his late brother—sharp, aristocratic features, silver hair perfectly combed back, and eyes like black ice. He was looking directly at me.
He didn't look surprised. He raised his glass in a silent toast, his lips curling into a cruel, knowing smile.
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"He's seen you," Audrey warned. "His security detail is moving into flanking positions on the ground floor. They are boxing you in, Elena."
"Let them," I whispered, snagging a flute of champagne from a passing waiter's tray. I began walking slowly toward the grand staircase that led up to his balcony. "I didn't come here to hide."
