Page 9 of Heresy

But I can play the part.

And play it I shall.

Paul’s throat bobs to swallow, his jaw locked. Probably because he knows I’m full of shit.

He knows who I really am. He’s seen it up close and personal before.

And he doesn’t want to say too much because he knows doing so would only make this situation worse.

Thankfully, I have Olivia here to answer all my questions.

Sometimes, you just have to love loose-lipped gossips.

“He’s marrying Hillary Cornish.” Her eyes dart to Paul. “And didn’t you say she should be arriving soon? It’s been ages since I’ve seen her.”

What a coincidence.

It’s been ages since I’ve seen her as well.

And thank you Olivia for just giving me the information I needed to figure out exactly how I intend to teach Paul a lesson.

I love it when all the pieces fall into place so damn easily. Like it was meant to be. I smile at the thought.

Paul and Olivia smile back, thinking my expression is merely friendly.

Clearing his throat, Paul admits, “Yes. She should have already arrived. I’m not sure what’s keeping her.”

“Well, hopefully she makes it in time for the engagement announcement,” Olivia says in that polished voice of hers. “I mean, it’s why we’re all here tonight, isn’t it?”

She laughs like she told a joke. Not seeing the humor in it, I lock my gaze to Paul’s again, the silent warning of my stare apparently loud and clear if the renewed tension in his shoulders has anything to say for it.

Sucks for him.

But good for me.

This will be easier than I thought.

Bored now that I got the information I need, I flash them a polite smile.

“Well, it’s been good seeing you both. I really should keep moving. There are so many people I need to say hello to.”

Like Hillary...

Especially Hillary.

Olivia looks heartbroken, but Paul eyes me warily. Smart man. I’m about to wreck his world, and he should remember exactly why when I’m done.

My demeanor turns wolfish as I step away, my eyes scanning the grounds in search of a woman I am so excited to see again. Only because she’ll make this task so damn easy.

I walk back to the house, nodding my head at familiar people, refusing to stop and chat until I’m stepping back through the doors and rounding the grand staircase to position myself near the foyer where Hillary will have to enter.

Several groups of people mill about, none that I’m interested in talking to.

Thankfully, Jase walks past a few minutes later, his brow arching in question to find me standing by myself.

“Tell me you saw the blue-haired woman who’s walking around here.” He steps up to stand beside me.

Confused, I meet his eyes.

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