The city lights sparkled like stars as the Knight Group's luxury limousine glided through Lagos streets.
Amara sat stiffly beside Alexander, her hands folded neatly in her lap. Tonight was her first public appearance as Alexander Knight's wife, and her nerves were tangled with fear.
"Relax," Alexander said, glancing at her. "Keep your head high, your smile natural. Everything else… watch and learn."
Amara swallowed. "Learn what?"
"Who smiles at you because they want your favor… and who smiles because they want your downfall." His voice was low, tense. "This event is more than charity. It's a battlefield."
The gala hall shimmered with chandeliers, laughter, and the soft clink of champagne glasses. Guests in designer gowns and tuxedos mingled, but to Amara, every face seemed like a mask hiding danger.
Claire was already there. Amara spotted her across the room, laughing at someone's joke, her eyes darting constantly toward Amara. The cold satisfaction in Claire's smile made Amara shiver.
Alexander leaned close. "Ignore her. For now. Focus on observing."
Amara nodded, forcing a smile as they entered the room. Cameras flashed, and whispers followed them. She felt exposed under the glittering lights.
Then she noticed him.
A man in a dark suit, standing near the grand staircase, watching them. His expression unreadable. But there was something… off.
Amara's instincts screamed. This wasn't a guest. This wasn't a random attendee.
Before she could say anything, Alexander tapped her hand. "Do you see him?"
Amara nodded subtly.
"That's Victor," he whispered. "He's on their side. Claire has been manipulating him to get close to me… and you."
Her stomach churned. Danger wasn't just inside the mansion. It followed them into public spaces.
Suddenly, Victor moved closer, his eyes fixed on Amara. She felt her pulse spike.
Alexander leaned slightly toward her. "Stay close. Don't react."
Victor raised a glass, pretending to toast someone, but his gaze never left her. Amara's heart pounded. Every step he took toward her felt like a countdown.
Then, just as she thought he would stop, Victor leaned in, murmuring something in her ear.
Before she could react, Alexander's hand was on her arm, pulling her back. The man stumbled slightly, his face flushing, and moved away.
Amara exhaled sharply, her body trembling.
"See?" Alexander said quietly. "They're everywhere. And they will stop at nothing."
Amara realized something terrifying. Claire's influence wasn't just personal—it was powerful, extensive, and ruthless. Every person here could be an enemy, and the first real test of survival in Alexander's world had begun.
The gala glittered like a dream, but to Amara, it felt like a trap. And tonight, the rules were clear: watch, trust no one, and survive.