What settlement agreement? I frowned, watching them exchange conspiratorial smiles. Something about their newfound camaraderie lately unsettled me. Mother had never shown such enthusiasm for any of my previous relationships—not even Cecilia, who had been there for me for eight years.
Needing some air, I stepped onto the balcony. Kael, my wolf, paced restlessly in my mind. He'd been on edge all day, sensing something was wrong.
I dialed my security detail. "Is she still at her parents' house? Never left? Good, I'll swing by after the gala."
Returning to the ballroom, I found Cici shoving an auction catalog in my face.
"Xavier, look at these amazing pieces! This pink diamond set from Mrs. Linda is stunning! The design is absolutely gorgeous. And Mrs. Liu's ring is beautiful too..."
"The
