The doors opened before she could knock. Cordelia stood there in an elegant black dress, expression unreadable.

“Welcome back, Chloe,” she said smoothly, stepping aside to let her in.

Chloe stepped into the marble-floored foyer, her eyes adjusting to the dim glow of golden chandeliers hanging above. The rich aroma of garlic, wine, and roasted meats drifted in the air, teasing her senses. Her heels clicked softly as she walked forward, led by the faint sound of cutlery.

In the grand ...