CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY NINE –IMMACULATELY

The estate cut an opulent figure against the rolling backdrop of the city's most exclusive enclave, its palatial grounds and immaculately-manicured gardens bespeaking generations of inherited wealth and privilege. Jasmine couldn't help but gape, awestruck, as their limousine glided up the winding drive that curved towards the imposing facade of the manor. The night was alive with a veritable kaleidoscope of glittering lights and elegantly-attired revelers, the crisp evening air thrumming with the lilting strains of a live orchestra. Beside her, Gordon shifted uncomfortably in his meticulously-tailored tuxedo, his expression one of barely-concealed disdain. He looked every inch the reluctant aristocrat, from his impeccably-groomed silver hair to the gleaming patent leather of his dress shoes. "Remind me again why we're waltzing right into the viper's nest?" he muttered through clenched teeth, his gaze sweeping over the teeming crowds with poorly-disguised distaste. Jasmine laid a