Prologue “Mia, the doorman just buzzed to say a car is here for you,” Caroline called from the other room. Mia’s breath hiccupped, and she reached for the contract that was lying beside where she sat on the edge of the bed. It was slightly rumpled and was showing signs of wear for all the times she’d read over it. She’d memorized every word of it, and it played over and over in her mind. Along with it, images fired by her imagination. Of her and Gabe together. Him controlling and possessing her. Owning her. Shoving it into her purse, she stood and hurried to her dresser to look in the mirror one last time. She showed signs of little sleep. There were dark smudges under her eyes that makeup couldn’t disguise. Her color was off as well. Even her hair had refused to respond and had a rumpled look to it. There was little to do now except go. Taking a deep breath, she left her bedroom and walked through the living room toward the door. “Mia, wait!” Caroline said as she ran to where Mia held the door open. Caroline hugged her tightly and then stood back, her hand going to push Mia’s hair behind her ear. “Good luck, okay? You’ve not been yourself this entire weekend. If it’s