Chapter 5 - The Gala of Illusions
Three days later, the annual City Architectural and Legal Charity Gala took place at the Grand Meridian Hotel—a glittering affair attended by the city’s elite judges, top-tier corporate attorneys, politicians, and socialites.
Nicholas had insisted I attend.
“You need fresh air, Sophie,” he had said over breakfast, smiling warmly for the benefit of the nanny he had temporarily hired. “Put on that emerald silk dress I bought you. It’s time you re-entered society. Just... remember to stay calm. Don’t talk too much about your ‘anxiety.’”
He wanted me there as a prop. A beautiful, fragile ornament on his arm to prove to his wealthy peers what a devoted, patient husband he was, standing bravely by his mentally unstable wife.
I wore the emerald dress. It hugged my frame tightly, accentuating my sharp collarbones and the pale, haunting look I had deliberately cultivated. When Nicholas saw me descend the grand staircase, his eyes gleamed with arrogant pride.
“Stunning, darling,” he whispered, kissing my cheek as we stepped into his chauffeured town car. “Just remember: smile, nod, and let me do the talking.”
When we arrived at the ballroom, the room was a blinding sea of crystal chandeliers, clinking champagne flutes, and expensive perfumes. Flashbulbs popped as local society photographers captured the high-powered couples entering the venue. Nicholas draped his heavy arm protectively over my waist, playing the role of the knight in shining armor.
“Ah, Nicholas! And lovely Sophie!” Judge Thomas Henderson boomed, striding over with a glass of scotch in hand. Henderson was one of the most influential federal judges in the district—and coincidentally, the man Nicholas was hoping would preside over our upcoming custody and trust hearings. “Wonderful to see you out and about, my dear. I heard you’ve been having a rather... difficult recovery.”
I lowered my eyes, trembling slightly right on cue. “Thank you, Judge Henderson. It’s... it’s been a challenge. My husband has been my absolute rock.”
Nicholas beamed, pressing his hand a little tighter against my waist. “Family comes first, Judge. Always. Sophie’s health is my top priority.”
“Such a commendable young man,” Henderson praised, raising his glass to Nicholas. “If only more husbands possessed your patience.”
I smiled faintly, keeping my gaze downcast. But inside, my heart was counting down the seconds.
Marcus had sent me a text message precisely three minutes ago: “The main server override is locked and loaded. Awaiting your signal, architect.”
I looked up at Nicholas, batting my eyelashes with innocent fragility. “Darling, could you get me a glass of sparkling water? The lights in here are making me a little dizzy.”
May you like
Nicholas frowned slightly, annoyed at being interrupted mid-conversation with a judge, but he pasted on a warm smile. “Of course, sweetheart. Don’t go anywhere.”
As soon as Nicholas turned his back and walked toward the bar, I pulled my phone from the small evening clutch, tapped the screen, and sent a single word to Marcus: “Execute.”
