A stranger named Ruth had forced me out of my husband’s old pickup just seconds before a delivery truck slammed into it, sending the vehicle over a cliff and into flames.

The Grand Ballroom of the Plaza Hotel was a sea of black tuxedos, diamond necklaces, and glittering chandeliers. The elite of the city’s business world were gathered for the Whitmore Group’s annual winter gala.

Ethan and Megan slipped through the side entrance, both looking ragged despite their expensive attire. Megan’s makeup was thick, hiding the dark circles under her eyes, while Ethan’s suit looked loose on his frame—he hadn't eaten a full meal in forty-eight hours.

"Find Daniel Carter," Ethan whispered sharply, clutching Megan’s wrist. "He’s the key. If I can threaten to leak false stories about Whitmore financial instability to the press, he'll pay us off just to keep the stock price steady."

"And if he doesn't?" Megan whispered back nervously.

"He will. He has to."

Suddenly, the house lights dimmed. A single spotlight illuminated the grand marble staircase at the front of the ballroom.

Daniel Carter stepped up to the microphone on the lower landing, wearing a flawless tuxedo. The chatter in the hall died down to a respectful hush.

"Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished board members, and honored guests," Daniel’s voice resonated clearly through the crystal speakers. "This year has brought unprecedented growth for the Whitmore Group. But as many of you know, recent tragic rumors have circulated regarding our leadership."

Ethan leaned in close to Megan, a sick, hopeful grin breaking across his face. "Here it comes," he whispered. "He's going to announce her death."

"Many believed that our majority shareholder and Chairwoman, Claire Whitmore Bennett, was lost in a terrible accident four days ago," Daniel continued smoothly. "However... reports of her death have been greatly exaggerated."

Ethan froze. The air left his lungs in a sharp, painful gasp.

"What did he just say?" Megan gasped, grabbing Ethan’s arm so hard her nails tore through his jacket sleeve.