Chapter 60

The engraved invitation burned Susan Thompson's fingertips.

She thought her heart had turned to ashes long ago. Yet when the gilded card was placed before her, a dull ache spread through her chest.

"Sister, Andrew and I are getting engaged next month." Nicole Capra smiled sweetly, her eyes glinting with hidden challenge. "We'd love you to witness our happiness."

Susan stared at the two names printed side by side. Then she laughed.

"An engagement..." She took the invitation slowly, tracing the embossed letters with her fingertips. "Should I bring a gift?"

Nicole stiffened, clearly unprepared for the question. "Well—"

"But honestly," Susan tore the invitation in half, "I'd rather feed money to stray dogs than give it to cheating scum."

Shredded paper fluttered onto Nicole's perfectly made-up face.

Andrew's expression turned icy. He grabbed Susan's wrist. "Susan!"

"Why so tense, Mr. Lucas?" She shook him off, smiling brightly. "I'm just giving you my blessing."

She took a step back, voice ringing clear. "May the whore and the dog live happily ever after!"

As she turned away, something wet trailed down her cheek. Susan wiped it away, straightened her spine, and walked toward the buffet.

Behind her, Nicole's fake sobs mingled with Andrew's comforting murmurs. Susan smirked and picked up a champagne flute from a passing waiter.

A sharp pain stabbed through her stomach. She set the glass down, searching for painkillers.

"Looking for Mr. King?" A server whispered. "He just went to the east lounge on the second floor."

Susan thanked him and glanced toward the staircase. The pain worsened. She decided to eat something before taking medication.

Across the room, Nicole watched Susan's retreating figure. She pulled a small vial from her clutch.

"Take this to Mr. King's room." She handed the server a glass of spiked wine. "Tell him... it's from Miss Thompson."

The server pocketed the heavy tip and carried the tray upstairs.

Nicole sipped her champagne, malice flashing in her eyes.

Tonight's show would be unforgettable.