The scent of white lilies filled the ballroom, but nothing could mask the stench of betrayal that clung to Elena Hart like smoke. She stood frozen in place, her heart pounding as she watched her fiancé, Brandon, drop to one knee—not for her, but for her sister.
Gasps filled the room.
Elena's fingers clenched the bouquet she'd brought as a bridesmaid. This was supposed to be their engagement party—hers and Brandon's. But here she was, a spectator to her own heartbreak.
"Brandon?" Her voice cracked.
He looked at her briefly. No remorse. No shame. Just cold detachment.
"I'm sorry, Elena," he said, rising and placing the glittering ring on her sister Brielle's trembling hand. "But she's the one I truly love."
Elena's world shattered. Cheers erupted as if her pain was entertainment. Her father's disapproving glare, her mother's awkward smile—it all blurred. Only one person moved toward her: a tall, impeccably dressed man with storm-gray eyes.
Dominic Blackwood.
Brandon's boss. Billionaire CEO. And the last person she expected to care.
"Come with me," he murmured, placing a steadying hand on her back. "You don't deserve this circus."
Elena hesitated—then followed.
That night, the man who owned half the city offered her something shocking: a deal.