CHAPTER 16: A Handsome Devil

　　Relief washed over me like a tidal wave as I closed my office door behind me. My legs wobbled slightly, the adrenaline receding, leaving behind a tremor of exhaustion. I had survived yet another day in the office and not blown my cover with Alexander. Thankfully, preparations had intensified for the charity ball after our visit to the tailor so we had not had any one on one interaction.

　　The shrill ring of my phone startled me just as I entered into my apartment. Glancing at the screen, I saw it was my best friend, Julia. A wave of relief washed over me. A familiar face, a chance to escape the suffocating web of deceit for a few precious hours. "Hey Jules," I answered, forcing a lightness into my voice.

　　"Evie!" Julia's voice crackled with excitement. "I'm already at the building! Can you buzz me in?"