Chapter 105

• Charlotte adjusted the delicate straps of her shimmering gown in front of the mirror, the soft fabric glistening under the light of her bedroom. She was both excited and anxious about the gala she’d been invited to. Originally expecting a simple evening of mingling, she had no idea it was being thrown by Esther, the future Mrs. Damien. Charlotte had been distant from the world of high society ever since she left the shadows of her past, but the invitation had felt like a breath of fresh air.
• Glancing at her phone, she realized that she still hadn’t sorted out who to take as her plus one. It didn’t take her long to decide; Blake had been an unexpected source of joy in her recent life. Ever since he saved her, he had become a steadfast friend. With newfound confidence, Charlotte dialed Blake’s number.
• “Hey, Blake! It’s Charlotte,” she said cheerfully when he answered.