Behind me, Raphael's voice rang out, smug and victorious. "I can't wait to see you in a week, my love!"
I did not stop walking, but a smirk tugged at my lips.
"Yes, just wait for your downfall, Raphael."
As expected, the thugs came for me five days later, but I was more than prepared.
I had always known Victor kept a watchful eye on me. Anticipating Raphael’s next move, I reached out to him before returning to Paris, requesting protection.
He agreed instantly, delighted that I was finally allowing him to spoil me again.
When the thugs arrived, they never even got the chance to lay a hand on me. Instead, they were swiftly subdued, their fear making them easy to break.
Under pressure, they confessed everything—their orders, Raphael’s involvement, every disgusting detail.
And just like that, the trap was set. The hunters had become the hunted. That time, it was my turn to play the game.
Two days later, as I arrived at the banquet with Raphael, instead of a warm welcome, I was met with sneers and condescending glances.
"Why did our rival's daughter come to such an important event?" Raphael's mother scoffed, looking me up and down with barely concealed disdain.