I stiffened. “Maureen, I—”
“You stole my life,” she said softly, stepping closer. “You took my family. My home.”
“It wasn’t my choice,” I whispered.
She tilted her head, feigning curiosity. “Wasn’t it?” Her gaze flicked past me, landing on Harland Her lips curled. “Even my mate?”
“I never—”
“You did,” she murmured, her voice smooth as silk. “But don’t worry. I have everything back now.” She leaned in, lowering her voice to a whisper. “How does it feel to lose everything, Avery?”
Before I could respond, she turned.
And then, with a small, deliberate motion, she tipped her wineglass.
Deep red liquid splashed down the front of her gown. The glass slipped from her fingers, shattering against the marble floor.
Gasps filled the room as Maureen stumbled backward, her voice breaking into a perfect, practiced sob.
“Oh my goddess, please don’t!” she whimpered, her eyes wide with feigned terror. “Why would you do this to me?”
Silence.
Then all eyes turned to me.
“I—” My voice caught in my throat, panic surging.
“Avery!”
Harland’s voice cut through the noise, sharp and accusing. He was by Maureen’s side in an instant, his face contorted with fury.
“What the hell is wrong with you?”