Chapter 7 - The Grand Entrance
The ballroom of the Palmer House was dripping in gold, crystal chandeliers, and high-society arrogance. Over three hundred of Chicago’s elite gathered in tuxedos and evening gowns, drinking champagne while Daniel Pierce stood near the stage, surrounded by reporters and city politicians.
He looked impeccable. A grieving, stoic stepfather doing his best in a tragic situation.
“Mr. Pierce!” a reporter called out. “Is it true your stepson made serious accusations against you last night?”
Daniel adjusted his cufflinks, putting on a somber face. “Tragically, yes. Mental health issues among teenagers are a quiet crisis in this country. My wife and I are doing everything we can to get Eli the psychiatric help he desperately needs.”
“Is that so, Daniel?”
The heavy doors at the back of the ballroom swung open.
The room fell dead silent. I walked down the central aisle wearing a midnight-black silk dress, my hair pulled back tightly, walking with the posture of a monarch entering her court. Behind me were two federal agents and Detective Miller.
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Daniel’s smile froze. “Mara... what are you doing here? You should be resting—”
“I’ve rested long enough,” I said, my voice carrying clearly across the silent hall.
