Page 101 of Heartless Sinner

Whenever we've spoken about Anton, Micah always seemed so confident that he could handle him. But my worry is that maybe he has finally discovered how unhinged Anton can be.

Maybe Micah has realized that while he may be powerful, Anton is different to what he's used to. I don't know. And that's the thing that worries me. The unknown. It stretches before me like a dark abyss, threatening to swallow my newfound happiness.

When Lucy and I reach the Grand Hall, she loops her arm through mine and smiles at me. The guards Micah sent with us stay out in the foyer, their presence a reminder of the dangers that lurk beyond these gilded walls.

Micah is in the building for another meeting and will join me later. He wanted to cancel his meeting to be with me, but I assured him I'd be okay. I also pointed out that the event was mainly for women.

He didn't care about that, but I think he wanted to respect my space and need to socialize with other women in our circle. Also, the place is so heavily guarded. I doubt anything could happen here.

"I never get tired of this place," Lucy bubbles as we stop in the center of the hall to admire the room.

"It's absolutely beautiful." My gaze roams the artwork and intricate designs. "I can't believe I'm here." My whisper carries a hint of awe, still not quite believing this is my life now.

"You better believe it." Lucy tugs on my arm, her excitement vibrating through our linked elbows. "This is part of your new life. I'm so proud of you, Scarlett."

"Thank you for supporting me." The words catch in my throat, emotion making my voice rough.

"I wish I could have done more for you. I feel bad I couldn't get you something like the movie deal."

"Are you kidding? You kept me going all these years and made sure I never gave up.” The truth of it makes my heart swell. “Your inspiration helped me to get the role."

"Don't be silly. It was all your awesome talent."

"Lucy, you know what I mean. Thanks for being there. And beinghere."

"Always."

I give her a quick hug. When we pull apart, I spot Genevieve at the same time she sees us. She's standing over by the buffet table with Belinda and Clarissa. The three of them wave at us and we wave back.

This is the second time I've seen them this week.

When they found out about my movie deal, they all came to see me the very next day with flowers and champagne galore. They made sure I was completely spoilt. It was nice.

Now they're wearing the same excited expressions. Lucy and I make our way over to them, where we're both given hugs and kisses on our cheeks.

"Look at my beautiful movie star daughter-in-law," Geneviève says, turning me around to admire my gown. The black silk whispers against my skin as I spin. "I've already picked out my outfit for the Oscars."

We all laugh, the sound bright and genuine in the opulent space.

"Genevieve, the movie hasn't even started filming yet." I smile back at her, feeling the knots in my stomach loosen from our laughter.

"Who cares about that? One needs to prepare for these things well in advance," she informs me in a matter-of-fact tone and a flick of her delicate wrist.

Belinda and Clarissa exchange amused smiles, although I know they secretly agree with Genevieve. Now that I know them a little better, I've realized they're not that different from her.

"Come, let's go sit. We’re right at the front in the VIP section." Genevieve takes my arm and ushers Lucy and me over to the tables near the chocolate fountain. The area has been decorated with pink and white roses lining the chairs.

Once we sit, I spot Eloise in the corner talking it up with a bunch of plastic-looking women who look similar to her. They see me, too, and give me the same filthy looks she does. I turn away, deciding to ignore them, though their stares burn between my shoulder blades.

Genevieve grabs the wine and pours us each a glass before she sits. Then she, Belinda, and Clarissa focus on me, like they did that first night I met them. I can tell they have more questions about the movie. The intensity of their attention makes my skin prickle.

"So, have you found out yet when rehearsals and filming begin?" Genevieve asks, leaning forward slightly, her pearls gleaming.

"We have rehearsals from next week but official filming begins in three months," I answer with pride.

Lucy clasps her hands together, sharing my excitement, her rings clicking softly.

"That's perfect," Belinda says. "You'll have some time to get settled in and prepare."

---