IMOGEN'S POV (Two weeks later)
I fixed my makeup in the spare bedroom, staring at my reflection in the mirror. My hands trembled slightly as I applied the final touch of lipstick. I didn't want to do this. God, I really didn't want to do this. But I had to. There was no other choice.
I tucked the lipstick back into my bag and practiced my smile. Perfect. Radiant. The smile of a gracious hostess who had everything under control. I took a deep breath and stepped out of the room.
Almost immediately, I bumped into Evelyn Harper from the Portland Society. She beamed at me, her face a mask of admiration.
"Imogen, darling! You've really outdone yourself this time. I simply can't wait to see what you have in store for the autumn gala."
I forced my practiced smile wider. "Oh, I assure you, Evelyn, it'll be to die for."
