Chapter 2 - The Arrival
The Sterling Estate was a monument to Northern California opulence. Valets rushed to open the doors of Bentleys and Maseratis, while a string quartet played softly on the sprawling terrace overlooking the vineyards.
When Alexander’s sleek, armor-plated Mercedes Maybach pulled up, heads turned. Alexander Thorne was a giant in the tech and finance worlds; his presence at the wedding was an unexpected flex. But the real shock was yet to come.
Alexander stepped out, adjusting his tailored Tom Ford suit, and extended his hand to Maya.
She emerged looking like absolute royalty. Maya wore a custom-fitted, deep sapphire gown that hugged her curves and flowed elegantly to the ground. She wasn't the tired, stressed student Tristan had left behind; she was a stunning, successful woman glowing with confidence.
Then, the doors of the SUV opened further.
Out stepped Leo and Lucas in miniature tuxedos, followed by Lily in a gorgeous pale blue dress, her dark curls bouncing.
As Maya and Alexander walked up the marble steps, holding the children's hands, the murmurs began. Guests who had known Maya from her brief time with Tristan stared in open-mouthed shock.
Eleanor Sterling was standing near the champagne fountain, greeting a senator. When she caught sight of Maya, her polite, practiced smile froze. The crystal flute in her hand trembled. Eleanor’s eyes darted from Maya’s expensive gown to the imposing billionaire holding her waist, and finally, to the three toddlers.
May you like
Eleanor’s face drained of all color. She recognized the Sterling features immediately.
Maya held Eleanor’s gaze from across the terrace, tipped her chin up, and offered a perfectly polite, entirely lethal smile.
