Chapter 9

• "It’s your last public appearance as Amber Hamilton," Xavier said, smiling at her for the first time that night, Amber nodded, lowering her head.
• As they stood at the threshold of the Astor ballroom, the butler swung open the grand doors. He extended his arm, inviting her to link arms with him. "Let's put on a good show, shall we?"
• With a small smile and another nod, he led her inside. The room grew still as they glided inside, the slow classic music feeling the void of the silence. Whispers and murmurs died down, but the speculating glances continued as they made their way through the crowd.