Starlight Scandal

Entwined Series
Book #5 Starlight Scandal

Aria Sterling :
The moment I stepped into the Grand Sterling Hotel's ballroom, I knew two things: my Valentino heels were killing me, and Ewan Carter was here. Just like that, my night was ruined.

The air reeked of expensive perfume and well-dressed deceit. This was a battlefield, and I had one goal-take Ewan Carter down.

"Aria, darling." Veronica Sinclair's voice dripped with mischief. "You're glowing tonight."

"Survival tactic," I said, sipping my champagne. "Your dress? Bold. Sequins are a choice."

Her smile faltered. "You're awful."

"I try."

Then the room shifted. A ripple of anticipation. I turned. And there he was-Ewan Carter, leaning against the bar like he owned the place. Because, technically, he did.

He caught my eye, smirked, and raised his glass. Smug bastard. Unfortunately, he looked good-midnight-blue suit, perfectly styled hair, confidence dripping off him like cologne.

Veronica nudged me. "You and Ewan have chemistry."

"Sure," I muttered. "If setting him on fire counts."

Before I could escape, he was in front of me.

"Aria," he drawled. "You look... expensive."

I sipped my drink. "It's called taste, Carter. You wouldn't understand."

"Harsh," he said, feigning hurt. "And here I thought we could be civil."

"Civil? That's rich."

"Everything about me is rich."

Infuriating. That was the problem with Ewan Carter-he always played to win. And tonight? I needed something from him.

Lowering my voice, I said, "I need to talk to you."

His brow lifted. "Be still my heart. Aria Sterling wants a private chat?"

"Less heart, more necessity."

He smirked. "Intriguing. Lead the way."

I turned, feeling his eyes on me. This wasn't about him. It was about strategy.

But then again... neither of us ever lost. And that? That was where the fun began.