The sprawling marital estate Julian had insisted on buying—with her family’s money—was completely silent. It was 2:00 AM. Outside the massive bay windows of the designer kitchen, the city skyline glittered like a scattering of diamonds against the dark velvet of the night.

Clara sat on o

*Scene 1: Kitchen*

Clara's voice raised an octave, adopting the shrill, demanding tone she usually reserved for the country club. "I don't care if the supplier in Holland had a bad frost! I ordered white peonies for the Gala centerpieces, not cream, not ivory—white! If you can't source th

The smell of freshly brewed espresso and warm butter croissants wafted into the master bedroom, pulling Clara from a fitful sleep.

She opened her eyes to the sight of Julian walking through the double oak doors, carrying a silver tray. He was wearing his cashmere sweater, his hair perf