The night air over Chicago carried the scent of frost and celebration. It was December thirty first, and the city shimmered beneath strings of white lights draped across Michigan Avenue. Inside the rooftop restaurant called The Meridian Room, crystal glasses chimed together, laughter rolled like soft thunder, and an orchestra played warm melodies that floated above the skyline. Every table was full, every seat reserved weeks in advance for the arrival of a new year.
Cassandra Reed arrived alone.
She stepped out of the elevator wearing a sapphire gown that hugged confidence around her shoulders, even though her heart felt strangely hollow. At forty one, Cassandra was the founder of one of the most successful robotics companies in the Midwest. She negotiated with global investors, advised government panels, and appeared in glossy magazines that praised her brilliance. Tonight however, she wanted nothing except a quiet dinner and the feeling of being surrounded by life rather than the echo of her penthouse.
The hostess glanced at her tablet, then frowned politely.