The cool night air moved softly across the quiet marble garden terrace, blowing the sweet smell of blooming red roses all around the grand estate. Far down below, the bright lights of the big city shone like thousands of tiny yellow stars in the pitch dark night. The loud classical music and happy cheers from the one hundred day celebration banquet inside the main hall felt quiet and peaceful from out here.

Julian Vance pulled his beautiful wife close against his broad chest, his strong arms wrapping tight around her slender waist. He rested his sharp jaw gently against her shoulder, smelling the sweet, fresh scent of vanilla and roses...