Chapter 7: The Masquerade Trap
Chapter 7: The Masquerade Trap
The Sterling Mansion was transformed into a glittering Venetian dreamscape. Guests in elaborate masks and ballgowns flooded the ballroom. Maya, dressed in a breathtaking crimson gown that Alexander had bought for her, wore a silver half-mask. She felt like an imposter, but she had a job to do.
Alexander's tech team had installed micro-cameras around the perimeter. The rumor had been purposefully leaked by Cole: The real Sterling Star was never stolen. It was a decoy. The real one is locked in the East Wing safe.
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Vivian, unable to resist the social event of the season, had snuck in using a forged invitation. Maya spotted her across the room, wearing a peacock-feathered mask, glaring daggers at Alexander.
As the orchestra swelled and Alexander took to the floor for the first dance, Maya slipped away from the crowd, heading toward the East Wing. She hid in the shadows of the corridor, her heart hammering against her ribs. Minutes later, a figure in a staff uniform crept toward the safe.
