The clink of glass echoed softly through Serena’s apartment, the golden light of the chandelier catching the rim of the wine bottle as Eve poured. A deep crimson stream flowed into their glasses, smooth and rich, like liquid victory.

“Cheers,” Serena whispered, her grin wide and satisfied.

Eve lifted her glass, her smile calm, poised, hiding the quiet storm that always brewed beneath. Their first plan had worked flawlessly—every detail, every deception, every step had unfolded with ...