CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY THREE – UNSPOKEN TENSION

"You're a natural," Kathy said, appearing at Nia's side with a fresh drink. "Everyone loves you." Nia smiled, feeling a warmth that had nothing to do with the alcohol. "Thanks. I'm actually having a great time." "See? I told you it would be fun. Oh, there's someone I want you to meet. He's a partner at a big law firm downtown. Could be a good connection for you." As Kathy led her across the deck, Nia felt a sense of contentment wash over her. For the first time in a long time, she felt like she belonged somewhere. Like she could build a life here, free from the shadows of her past. But as they approached the group Kathy was aiming for, Nia's sense of peace shattered in an instant. A familiar voice cut through the ambient noise of the party, sending a chill down her spine. Time seemed to slow as Nia turned, her eyes scanning the crowd. And there, engaged in conversation with Mark and another man, was Leon Allistair. He looked exactly as she remembered – tall, impeccably dressed, w