Chapter 115
Vanessa's body froze instantly. She instinctively tried to pull away, but Lucien's voice slithered into her ears like honeyed poison.
"Do you enjoy being here?"
His tone carried an odd lilt that sent shivers down her spine. It reminded her sharply of who he was—a man she couldn't afford to cross.
She stiffened, forcing herself to remain still in his grasp. Her neck felt rigid as she nodded. "O-Of course, I do."
His fingers traced idle patterns along her wrist. "And would you like... to have it all?"
This time, her answer came quicker, smoother. "Yes. Absolutely."
What a dream that would be.
Her entire life had been a relentless climb toward the glittering heights of high society—wealth, luxury, adoration. No more pain, no more struggle. Just the effortless privilege of being someone important.
Dominic had been her golden ticket. A promising investment, one she had watched grow as DR Holdings expanded, collecting accolades and influence. Even when he was still entangled with Evelyn, Vanessa had held the upper hand. She had played her cards right, securing her place as Mrs. Reeves. Everything had been falling perfectly into place.
Then the essential oils scandal struck.
It was a brutal awakening.
DR Holdings, for all its success, was still fragile. One misstep, and the empire could crumble. Unlike the true titans of industry—the Celestia Groups of the world—they lacked the unshakable foundation of old money and power.
And Dominic?
Every time trouble arose, he turned to Evelyn. Or his mother. But now, with his mother out of the picture, what did that leave him?
What did that leave her?
Vanessa used to dream of the future with greedy anticipation. Now, she barely dared to imagine it.
The truth was undeniable—she and Dominic would never truly belong to the elite. The divide was too vast, too deep. No amount of ambition could bridge the chasm between them and the real aristocracy.
Lucien's grip tightened slightly, his breath warm against her ear.
"Then let me show you what real power looks like."