One afternoon, while I was practicing the poised, effortless walk of a supermodel, Dr. Chelsea’s phone buzzed. Her face darkened as she glanced at the screen before stepping away to take the call. I wasn’t trying to eavesdrop, but her sharp, hushed voice was impossible to ignore.
When she returned, her expression was unreadable. "An opportunity has come up."
I wiped my damp palms on my dress. "What kind of opportunity?"
"Gabriel is hosting an exclusive auction. Private guest list. My assistant, Calvin, secured a VIP pass for you. He knows everything and can be trusted."
Hearing Gabriel’s name made my stomach tighten. I already knew what she wanted. "And you expect me to go?"
She met my gaze, unwavering. "You're Kristie now. He won’t be able to ignore you."
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The night of the auction, I arrived in a deep blue gown that shimmered under the chandeliers. Every inch of me—my posture, my makeup, the tilt of my chin—had been designed to be flawless. I no longer felt like myself.
I felt like her.
As I stepped inside, murmurs rippled through the crowd, whispers trailing behind me. Ignoring them, I scanned the lavish room until my eyes locked onto him.
Gabriel Carson.