Chapter 57 The Bidding Event

• OLIVIA'S POV
• The ballroom looked stunning, like a dream that smelled of money and deception. Light sparkled through crystal chandeliers, casting gold and champagne colors on fancy dresses and tuxedos. You could hear quiet talk mixed with jazz music, clinking glasses, and laughter that felt odd.
• The walls were draped in white, hiding the tension behind the glamour. Each table shone with candlelight. Waiters moved gracefully through the crowd. The charity event was supposed to feel classy and warm, but I sensed coldness behind every smile. The wealthy people in Manhattan didn’t donate out of kindness; they did it to show off.