The private room was in a Sloane-owned establishment on the east side, one of those places with no sign on the door and a man built like a refrigerator standing outside it. He recognized me and stepped aside without a word, though his eyes tracked me with the particular pity reserved for women who belong to powerful men who don't want them.

When I pushed the door open, I spotted Dominic immediately. He was feeding Penelope a slice of cake, her eyes wide and doe-like as she looked up at him. The scene was lit by low amber light that made everything look warmer than it was. A few associates lingered at the edges of the room, drinks in hand, their laughter dying the moment I appeared.

The moment he saw me, his expression shifted into one of irritation. His gaze darkened, and I knew what he was thinking.

Why did I show up?

I knew already that Penelope had been the one to send the message, not him.

But I'd come anyway. One last time. For my own reasons.

"Olivia!" Penelope greeted me with a wide smile, her voice as sugary as ever.