Chapter 21: Escalating Danger
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"You've raised double last year's amount," the shelter director gushed. "These women and children will have real support because of you."
For the first time in months, I felt something beyond revenge—purpose, perhaps, or redemption.
My guard lowered by genuine emotion, I didn't notice Mia Brown watching me from across the room.
In the restroom, I splashed water on my flushed face, the high neckline of my gown suddenly stifling. Unthinking, I pulled the fabric away from my neck to cool my skin.
The bathroom door opened. In the mirror, I met Mia Brown's calculating gaze.
"Interesting birthmark," Mia commented, eyes fixed on the small crescent-shaped mark now visible at the base of my neck. "I've only seen one like it before."
My blood ran cold as I quickly readjusted my dress. "Family trait."
"Funny," Mia's smile was predatory. "Rachel Williams had an identical mark. Michael used to joke it looked like a little moon."
"Coincidence," I replied smoothly, though my heart hammered.
Mia blocked my path. "What was Rachel's childhood dog's name?"
The question—so specific, so unexpected—caught me off-guard. "I wouldn't know."
"No? Strange. Because you just touched your left wrist—exactly where Rachel had a small scar from when Buddy bit her as a puppy."
Panic flared, but I maintained my composure. "Ms. Brown, I'm not sure what game you're playing—"
"No game," Mia interrupted, eyes narrowing. "Just connecting dots. You appeared right after Rachel's 'death.' You're systematically undermining Michael. And you have physical characteristics only Rachel Williams possessed."
"Your imagination is impressive," I said coldly. "Now, if you'll excuse me."
As I walked away, Mia called after me: "I wonder what Michael would think of my theory?"
That night, I paced our penthouse, anxiety mounting. Jack was in Tokyo closing a crucial deal—unreachable for another twelve hours.
My phone chimed with a text from an unknown number: We should talk, Rachel. Or should I call you Zoe? -MB
The walls of my carefully constructed new life were beginning to crumble.
