Chapter 1: Introduction
Bella Coltello found herself standing among the crème de la crème of New York society. They gathered around polished wooden tables set with fine crystal glassware, silver candelabras casting dancing shadows across delicate cheekbones and silk dresses. Intrigue hung thick within the air, carried upon a melody of soft laughter and distant conversation. This was Bella’s domain – she knew how to blend seamlessly into such environments with ease. However, tonight would prove different than most nights...
As Bella sauntered along the perimeter of the ballroom, surveying the impeccable decorum, her eyes were suddenly drawn towards an impossibly curvaceous figure that seemed out of place. The sight made her pause momentarily before curiosity propelled her forward toward the alluring creature.
The object of her fascination turned out to be none other than Alexis Summers, who appeared to have arrived fashionably late.