138. THE WELCOME PARTY

VINCENT

I arrived at the event hall, already regretting my decision to come. The hall itself was over the top—just like my mother. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, spilling light onto the gleaming marble floor. White and gold drapes cascaded from the walls, and tall floral arrangements, bursting with roses and lilies, lined the edges of the room. The centerpiece was an elaborate display of her name—Da'ana Powers—in gold letters, draped with ivy and soft twinkling lights. Her brand launch, which was disguised as a welcome party.

Of course, it had to be something that screamed for attention.

I made my way through the crowd, nodding mechanically as her friends—glossy, air-kissed women in designer gowns—swooped down on me with their greetings.

"Vincent! Darling, look at you!" One of them cooed, air-kissing both my cheeks like she’d known me my whole life.

"You’re so much like your mother!" another chimed in, her voice syrupy sweet.

I forced a smile, nodding politely, though I co