Chapter 4

Colette sat on the edge of her bed, her heart pounding as she dialed Matt’s office number. She felt a pang of guilt and self-loathing for what she was about to do, but she needed to know. The phone rang twice before the familiar, gentle voice answered.

“Matt Angelis’ office, Tanya speaking.”

“Tanya, it’s me, Mrs. Angelis,” Colette said, trying to maintain a light tone despite the tightness in her chest. She remembered Tanya, the receptionist who always wore floral dresses and bohemian jewelry, a nice girl with a soft-spoken temperament.

“Oh! Hello, Mrs. Angelis,” Tanya greeted her with a hint of surprise, her voice breathless. “How can I help you?”

“Listen, Tanya, Matt was in such a hurry this morning that he completely forgot to tell me the venue of the gala tonight. Silly me, I didn’t catch it either,” Colette said, forcing a laugh that sounded hollow even to her own ears. She hated having to resort to this ruse, feeling the disgust rising within her.

“Oh! The gala is at the Chandeliers, as always,” Tanya replied softly.

“Of course, as always,” Colette echoed, trying to keep her voice casual.

“Mr. Angelis and Ms. Iris left for the gala a few minutes ago,” Tanya continued, oblivious to the impact of her words. “I heard it’s going to be even bigger than last year.”

Another knife twisted in Colette’s chest, aiming straight for her heart. She gripped the phone tighter, fighting to keep her composure. When would she learn? When would she stop?

“Thanks, Tanya,” Colette said, biting her lip to keep her voice steady.

“No problem, Mrs. Angelis. Enjoy the gala.”

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