Page 119 of Lush

But the gnawing feeling in my gut wouldn’t let up.

I looked across the room and saw Dante at the bar. He lifted his glass to me with a subtle nod. A chill ran through me.

The more I thought about it, the more I realized how little I truly knew. I needed to dig deeper. Trust no one.

Because everyone here was hiding something.

CHAPTER 23

Laurene

My fun endedwhen I spotted Harold talking to Mayor Castillo.

The music’s beat matched my fast heartbeat. I left Gigi and Serena dancing and made my way over to them.

Harold and Dante. Blair’s men, standing side by side.

My eyes locked on Harold, and something tight and uncomfortable coiled in my chest.

“Mr. Ashbourne.” I tried to keep my voice steady. “Mayor Castillo.”

Dante grinned.“Mrs. Ashbourne.”

I glared, focusing on Harold. “Laurene. Lovely reception, isn’t it?”

“Harold. We need to talk.”

“I’m in the middle of business here. Surely my son can entertain you, or you can fix that pretty makeup of yours.”

“It’s urgent,” I pressed.

He sighed and gestured to Dante. “Excuse us, would you?”

Dante glanced at us before leaving. I’d handle him at another time.

Harold eyed me irritably. “Ruining my night, Laurene?”

“It’s about Blair.” I met his gaze, keeping a poker face. “Remember your hidden meeting at your house? Your mistress?”

Harold’s expression shifted in an instant. The color drained from his face, his eyes flickering with panic before they hardened. He glanced around quickly, his gaze landing on Pauline, laughing next to Jennie. “You don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Don’t I?”

He led me to a quiet room off the main hall.

“Blair’s been helping me with business. Nothing more.”

“Business?” I repeated. “I’m not buying it.”

“You should tread carefully. I’ve played this game longer than you’ve been alive.”

“What if I tell Pauline what I saw?”

His eyes snapped to mine, sharp and cold. “I’m not sleeping with Blair.”

“What are you hiding?”

He paused, but didn’t turn around. “I’m not answering any more of your questions.”

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