While I was locked inside that dressing room, the grand hall outside still shimmered with music and laughter, no one knew what was happening down here.
But beneath the surface, claws were already out.
Melissa pulled Camilla aside near one of the tall marble pillars. Her face looked pale, almost gray under the chandelier lights.
"I followed your instructions," Melissa whispered. "But she's Lewis's mate. If something goes wrong, the Alpha won't let the Hudson pack off easily."
Camilla didn't even blink.
Her expression was smooth. Cold. Controlled.
"Relax," she said softly. "It's just a few photos. Once we have leverage, the Hales will cooperate. Isn't that what your family has been wanting?"
Melissa swallowed. "But I…"
"Nothing serious will happen," Camilla cut in. "I made it clear. They'll scare her. Take a few compromising photos. That's all."
Her lips curved faintly.
