CHAPTER 135 DECEPTION DANCE

Hours passed, and Stan began to piece together a more complete picture of Claire. She was well-respected in her professional circles, with colleagues praising her dedication and intelligence. Photos from various events in New York and even Michigan showed her with a wide smile, often accompanied by her daughter, Emily. It was clear that Emily was a central figure in her life. Stan knew he had to be careful not to involve the child. Blake's conditions were clear, and Stan had no intention of crossing that line. But understanding the bond between Claire and Emily could provide valuable insights into how to approach Claire. As the evening approached, Stan decided it was time to put his plan into action. He changed into a more casual outfit, aiming to look approachable but not too polished. He needed to blend in, to appear as just another friendly face in the crowd. He arrived at La Trattoria just as the dinner rush was beginning. The restaurant was bustling with activity, the aroma of