Rue’s POV

The moment the ballroom doors closed behind me, the echo of laughter and music faded into the background. I unclasped the diamond brooch from my dress, my reflection in the corridor mirror staring back at me.

I retreated back to my hotel room, slipped off my heels, sinking into the leather chair, and initiated the conference call.

“Connect to the Executive," I murmured, and the online meeting blinked to life.

Beta Nate’s face appeared on the screen. “ How is your vacation ...