In the round, gilded foyer of Inna's home, a swarm of chattering people shifted around and around as each tried to greet as many as they could and stop at the bar at every full circle. Expensive perfumes and wine and catered cuisine filled the air, making every breath taken more titillating than the last.
Inna herself stood next to the stairs, away from the crowd. She was a lamb among foxes, an angel among mortals...
Yes, an angel.
After leaving the convent, Inna's return home immediately caused a stir in the luxurious community of Mount Desert Island. Her mother, the founder and owner of a pricey clothing line and her father, a semi-retired film producer; their names were well-known and their home, a never-ending train of charity balls and parties. The third night she was home, the night of the Spring Gala, there wasn't a man of any age or status who could keep his eyes off the young, mysterious daughter. Draped in white, tailored silk; her doll-like face sprinkled with color and long, dark curls pinned up with silver. She had said no more than three words to anyone the entire night, a delicate wallflower who's wide, sad eyes had captivated each guest.
Inna remained a mystery the coming months. The young, dashing sons of the local moguls had all expressed interest, had tried charming her in the midst of the music and champagne her parent's generously provided, but Inna excused herself from the room if a man as much as walked in her general direction. People were beginning to talk, but her behavior hadn't taken away from her wintry beauty; it only made the pursuit that much more challenging.
And as she stood against the large, florid staircase, wrapped in an evening gown the color of cream, the only man who made it into her thoughts was her nightly tormentor.