Page 55 of Cruel Hero

“I’m not abandoning anyone. I’ll make sure everyone is taken care of and set up with legitimate business opportunities if they want them. But I can’t keep living this life, Daniel. It’s slowly killing me.”

Daniel studies me. “You really love her, don’t you? This isn’t just some passing infatuation.”

“I do. More than I’ve ever loved anyone. She makes me want to be better, to do better.”

“I get it. I don’t like it, but I get it.” He pauses, then adds, “And I’m sorry. For going behind your back with Tiffany. I thought I was doing the right thing, but I should have trusted you.”

A weight lifts off my shoulders at Daniel’s words. The tension between us eases slightly as I nod in acknowledgment of his apology.

“I know you were trying to protect me. But I need you to trust me moving forward. Can you do that?”

Daniel takes a long sip of his whiskey before answering. “I can try. But Adrien, you have to understand—this life, this world we’ve built, it’s all I’ve known for so long. The thought of walking away from it...”

“I’m not asking you to give it all up overnight. But you must be open to the possibility of change. For both our sakes.”

“Fine. But if you get in over your head and can’t deliver on your promises, I won’t hesitate to walk away. I’ve stuck my neck out for you too many times already.”

“You’d have every right to. But I won’t let you down.”

Chapter 23

Tiffany

Istep into the Millhouse Gallery, the soft hum of conversation and the clink of wine glasses filling the air. It’s the opening night of Lucas’s new exhibit, and the gallery is alive with energy. The walls are adorned with bold, abstract pieces that seem to pulse with life, each brushstroke telling a story of its own.

I scan the room, searching for Olivia, but my sister is nowhere to be found. Instead, my gaze lands on Cassandra, who stands near a striking canvas of swirling blues and gold. She’s deep in conversation with Alexander Hawthorne, their heads bent close together. Something about the intensity of their exchange makes me pause, but before I can approach them, a familiar voice calls my name.

“Tiffany.”

I turn to see Lucas approaching. He’s dressed in a grey suit that fits him perfectly, the crisp lines accentuating his lean frame. His smile is polite, but strained.

“Lucas,” I say, returning his smile. “The exhibit is incredible. You’ve outdone yourself.”

He inclines his head. “Thank you. I wasn’t sure you’d come.”

“Of course, I came. I love your work.” I glance around the room again, the vibrant colors and textures drawing me in. “You’ve always had a way of capturing the intangible. It’s... breathtaking.”

“That means a lot, coming from you.” He hesitates, then adds, “I wasn’t sure where we stood after... everything.”

“I think we’re both trying to figure that out. But I didn’t want to miss this. You’ve worked so hard for this moment, and I’m proud of you.”

Lucas’s expression softens. “I’m glad you’re here, Tiffany. It means a lot.” He turns to look at the line of people waiting to congratulate him. “I have to go mingle with some other guests, but it’s been nice catching up with you. I’m glad that you seem happy, despite everything.”

As Lucas moves away to greet a group of admirers, I make my way towards Cassandra, now alone at the edge of the room. Her ivory dress is as striking as ever, and her auburn hair catches the light in a way that makes her seem almost ethereal. She notices me approaching and offers a warm smile.

“Tiffany, darling,” she says. “I was hoping I’d see you here tonight.”

“Cassandra, the gallery looks incredible. Olivia must be thrilled with the turnout.”

“She is,” Cassandra says, her gaze drifting over the crowd. “Though it’s more due to all the publicity your name has brought to the event. Everyone wants a piece of the Carter legacy these days.”

“At this point, we need someone to do something scandalous to take the spotlight off us for a while.”

“When people find out about you and Adrien Leroy, even more of a storm will follow. You’re not exactly a low-profile couple.”

“Well, let’s hope that particular storm holds off for a while longer. We’ve had enough drama to last a lifetime.”

A mischievous glint appears in Cassandra’s eyes. “Oh, Tiffany, you know as well as I do that drama is just part of the package when it comes to our world. But tell me, how are things with Adrien? I couldn’t help but notice your rather impressive security detail when you arrived. Things must be getting serious with him.”

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