“Yes. Miss Delilah is hosting a charity event.”
Charity. I nearly laughed out loud.
The hall buzzed with perfume, gossip, and money. Crystal chandeliers shimmered above crowds wrapped in silk and diamonds. Onstage, Delilah stood radiant in red, smiling into a microphone as one of her paintings was wheeled out.
“This is my most meaningful work,” she said sweetly. “I hope someone here will treasure it.”
Bids flew. Numbers soared. She basked in admiration.
But I was done letting her have the spotlight.
I walked forward, heels striking the marble, and took the microphone from the startled auctioneer.
“I’d like to contribute an additional item,” I announced. “A Carrington family heirloom.”
The room rippled with whispers.
I slid my wedding ring free. “This was given to me by Nathaniel Carrington. Its value is beyond measure—but tonight, its price will be higher than money.” I met their eyes steadily. “Whoever purchases this ring… will become my future husband.”
The silence was deafening.
Across the room, Nathaniel’s face drained of color.
The ring vanished to the highest bidder, and with it went the last thread tying me to that man.