.......
Emery had barely stepped into the grand foyer when the air sharpened. Someone was waiting.
Clara.
Draped in a crimson dress that looked too deliberate for morning, she leaned against a column with her arms folded. Her smirk bloomed the moment her eyes landed on Emery, like a cat cornering its prey.
“Well, well,” Clara purred, her tone dripping with mock sweetness. “The elusive Mrs. Cole. Or should I say… temporary Mrs. Cole?”
Emery’s pulse kicked, but her expression didn’t shift. She descended the stairs with calm precision, her blouse crisp, her hair perfectly in place. If Clara wanted a reaction, she wouldn’t get one.
“Clara,” Emery said smoothly.
Clara tilted her head, feigning pity. “I hope the news last night didn’t keep you awake. Damian and I… we do make quite t
