Chapter 4 - The Calm Before the Storm
The morning of the ceremony arrived with a crisp, autumn chill. Grant was in high spirits, adjusting his silk tie in the mirror. He looked at me through the reflection. "You're sure you're up for this, Evelyn? You don't have to come. It’s going to be crowded, lots of press." He was hoping I would stay home. He wanted the spotlight to himself and his mistress.
"I wouldn't miss it for the world," I said softly. I chose a cream silk dress, elegant but modest, perfectly designed to cover the surgical scar that ran down my stomach. I applied my makeup meticulously, making sure I looked polished but subdued—exactly the image of the dutiful wife he expected.
May you like
In the car ride to the hospital, Grant's phone buzzed incessantly. He smiled at the screen, shielding it from my view. I knew it was Sloane. The city's elite were gathering at the hospital atrium. The board of trustees, the wealthy donors, the local politicians, and most importantly, the nurses who had kept me alive. Grant patted my knee condescendingly as the driver pulled up to the entrance.
"Just stay in the background today, sweetheart," he murmured. "Let me handle the talking. The foundation needs this PR win." I looked at his hand on my knee, feeling absolutely nothing but a cold, hard resolve. I nodded. "I'll let you do all the talking you need to, Grant." He smiled, oblivious to the fact that he was walking into his own execution.
