Chase Sterling always felt like furniture. The kind you don't notice, the kind that's easy to shove in a corner and forget. He was used to it: people looked right through him, brushed him off like lint. But it only takes one phone call to erase a lifetime of being overlooked. When his estranged family meets a tragic end, Chase suddenly finds himself in charge of the sprawling Sterling fortune. Turns out, riches aren't the only thing the family left him. There's a curse running through his blood, warping love into something hungry and dangerous, impossible to escape.

Vivian Ashford never set out to blow Chase's life to smithereens. Just one decision (a sharp, ruthless move at graduation) was all it took to set their worlds spinning out of control. While Vivian soaks up the Hollywood limelight and collects red-carpet headlines, Chase slips into his new role as Manhattan's most intimidating heir. But no matter how far they run, something keeps yanking them back together, like a stitch in an old wound that refuses to heal.

The invitation arrives by messenger at 8 AM, thick cream cardstock with embossed lettering that screams old money and exclusivity.


You are cordially invited to the Fitzgerald Foundation Annual Gala


I almost throw it away. I'm not attending charity galas anymore. Marcus controls my schedule, and he hasn't mentioned this event. Plus, the last thing I need is another night pretending to be someone I'm not while photographed from every angle.


But then I see the note card tucked inside, handwritten in elegant script:


Your presence is specifically requested. Attendance is mandatory per your management contract, section 12F: public appearances that enhance professional image. A car will collect you at 6 PM. Wear the Valentino. - MW


Chapter 86 - Helena's Game