The Perfect Scam

Chapter XII

Daisy stood in front of the full-length mirror, adjusting her dress and nervously tucking a stray hair behind her ear. Tonight was the charity gala that Samson had insisted they attend together. She still wasn't sure why he wanted her to go.

As she looked at herself in the mirror, Daisy couldn't help but feel out of place. The wealthy crowd at the gala was a far cry from her modest upbringing. She straightened her back and put on a confident smile before heading out to meet Samson.

When she arrived at their table, Samson's eyes lit up as he took in her appearance. He stood up and pulled out her chair for her with a charming smile. Daisy couldn't help but melt under his gaze, despite the uneasy feeling in the pit of her stomach.

"Thank you for coming with me," he said, taking her hand and kissing it lightly.

"You're welcome," Daisy smirked.

As they chatted with other guests and sipped on champagne, Daisy's gaze kept wandering towards a particular woman across the room - Evelyn. She was the wealthy widow that Samson had been targeting for his next scam.

With a deep breath, Daisy prepared herself and approached Evelyn.

"Miss, may I have a word?" she asked, with an awkward smile.

"Of course, dear," Evelyn replied. "Isn't Carlton just marvelous? He promised to take me to Paris, you know. I've always wanted to go!" she confided.

Daisy felt a pang of jealousy; Paris had always been her dream too.

"He...He told you about Paris already?" She asked hesitantly.

"Oh yes, and that's not all," Evelyn gushed, "Carlton has a surprise for me tonight. I wonder what it is!"

"Evelyn," Daisy said gently, trying to hold her gaze. "I need you to listen to me very carefully..."

But her words fell on deaf ears as Evelyn's eyes glazed over with visions of romantic walks and cozy dinners. Daisy sighed heavily, realizing that no warnings would penetrate the romantic veneer Samson had so skillfully made.

"Really? A surprise, you say?" Daisy's voice tried to hide her concern as she asked.

Evelyn nodded enthusiastically, her eyes sparkling. "Yes, isn't it simply thrilling?"

Daisy took a sip of her champagne before speaking again. "Evelyn, I need to talk to you about Carlton..."

Evelyn looked confused but nudged her to continue. "Go on dear," she said, curiosity piqued.

"He's not what he seems to be." Daisy's voice was barely above a whisper now. She looked around nervously before continuing.

Evelyn's brow furrowed in confusion. "What do you mean? He's absolutely charming and so very attentive."