The sleek sound of the elevator echoed in Lily’s ears as she ascended to the top floor of the Kavinsky penthouse. Her stomach twisted, and not just from hunger or nerves. Every floor she passed brought her closer to a confrontation she neither wanted nor could avoid.

Leo was home. His presence alone was enough to make the air taut with tension. His parents were waiting, the kind of poised, untouchable figures who had always made her feel small in the shadow of wealth and reputation. And now, she was expected to play her part in the theater of appearances.

The doors opened, revealing a spacious living area bathed in...