"Head back. I'll see you at the gala tonight." Benedict's voice turned gentle again.
I walked out of the office. Miles fell into step beside me, his voice low. "Ms. Summers, Mr. Fox treats you differently than the others."
"Differently?"
"The previous nine. He never let any of them stay in that house. And he never personally delivered shoes to anyone."
I paused mid-step. "That house. Whose is it?"
Miles hesitated, then swallowed whatever he'd been about to say. "Just be careful tonight at the gala. Ms. Simmons will be there too."
Of course she would. Some people you just can't shake.
"Athena's just being childish. Don't take it to heart."
I'd barely walked back through the door when Benedict's message came through. Whether he was making excuses for Athena or trying to comfort me, I couldn't tell.
I didn't reply. No point picking a fight I couldn't win yet. Athena and I had a running tab, and I intended to collect every last cent.
The stylist unzipped the garment bag the assistant had delivered. Inside was a black evening gown.
"Ms. Summers, let's get you into this first."
I changed into the gown and stood before the mirror.
Elegant. Polished. Every curve in exactly the right place.