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Chapter 13: The Red Dress

Author: Ray Olly
last update publish date: 2026-05-29 18:20:15
SANDRA’S POV

“I already told Austin I’m not interested in pretending everything is fine.” Dad looks up from his laptop. “You’re not pretending anything.”

“Yes, I am.”

“Sandra.” The warning in his voice makes me stop pacing. We’re sitting in his home office surrounded by contracts, financial reports, and enough paperwork to give me a headache.

“The gala matters,” he says calmly. “Not because of Austin.” I cross my arms. “Then why?”

“Because half the investors attending will decide whether this co
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