Chapter 41: A Not so Distant Past  

Cole Fay had always been an enigma, even as a child. Reserved, indifferent, and wrapped in the aloofness that his father wore so well, Cole was a boy of few words and fewer emotions.

He didn't need to be anything else. His family's name carried enough weight to shield him from the world, and he lived within that shell, perfectly content to remain detached from everything and everyone.

That is, until the day Eve Rosette came into his life.

They met at one of those grand parties where important families gathered to discuss business ventures and alliances over sparkling glasses of champagne and laughter that never quite reached the eyes.

Cole was only six years old, standing next to his father, Cain Fay, watching the endless parade of wealthy faces blur into one another. His father was speaking with Mr. Rosette when a small, timid voice broke through the chatter.

"Cole?"