Chapter 1
The echo of the slap lingered in the ocean air, freezing the sixty wealthy guests gathered on the illuminated patio.
Evelyn Montgomery adjusted her pearl necklace, her cold eyes glinting under the warm string lights as she looked down at Hannah.
Mark stood above them, his black tie slightly askew, his dark eyes filled with arrogance and zero regret.
"Get up and take that crying child inside before you ruin the rest of the evening," Mark gritted through his teeth.
Hannah did not say another word; her breathless whisper still hung between them like an unbreakable vow.
She slowly stood up, smoothing the front of her ruby red satin gown with quiet, terrifying precision.
She gathered five-year-old Lily into her arms, pressing the terrified child's head against her shoulder.
The American flag above the stone balustrade rustled softly in the sea breeze as Hannah walked past the shocked crowd without looking back.
"Where do you think you're going, Hannah?" Evelyn demanded, her condescending voice piercing the silence.
Hannah paused at the edge of the stone steps, turning her head just enough for her icy profile to catch the light.
May you like
"I am leaving your house, Evelyn," Hannah replied softly.
"And I am taking everything that actually belongs to me."
