The next evening, Evelyn Pierce arrived precisely on time. I wore a luxurious sable fur coat that draped over my shoulders like a crown of midnight velvet.

Beneath it, a sleek emerald silk blouse and tailored black trousers hinted at power and elegance.

Then a Glossy black stilettos that clicked confidently as I move, while a strand of pearls and a sapphire ring added timeless sophistication.

My chestnut waves framed a face touched with subtle, smoky makeup and deep red lips—every ...