Chapter 20

Elodie tilted her head, studying her reflection in the mirror. The dress was perfect. It made her feel both beautiful and in control, which was exactly what she needed for tomorrow’s event. ‘Hannah,’ Elodie called out, ‘could you help me find a pair of shoes that match this dress? And do you know of a good makeup artist who could give me a polished but natural look?’ Hannah Marquez, her new personal assistant recommended by Christopher, was a petite woman with sharp eyes and a knowing smile. She nodded efficiently. ‘Certainly, Miss Fontaine. What about jewellery? Will you be wearing anything special?’ Elodie touched the jade bracelet on her left wrist. ‘Just this,’ she said, ‘and a necklace designed by my mother.’ The necklace was a showstopper, a cascade of diamonds and sapphires arranged in a swirling pattern that echoed the movement of the wind. It had been a gift from her mother, and it was one of Elodie’s most prized possessions. She slipped out of the dress and sent Hannah on her