Chapter 471

Blue Honors

Cassandra Prescott strode into the VIP lounge, draped in the most exquisite designer outfit and shoes gifted by Lillian.

Her informant had revealed Frederick Kingsley, the legendary director, was casting unknown actors for his new $100 million film.

That same friend knew Frederick's producer personally, which secured Cassandra this rare audition opportunity.

After reviewing Cassandra's portfolio, Frederick agreed to meet her.

When she learned he'd reserved Blue Honors' private suite, Cassandra nearly fainted with excitement. Her friend miraculously obtained an invitation for her.

Clutching the engraved invitation, Cassandra entered Blue Honors with calculated sway in her hips.

She intended to make an unforgettable impression. Perhaps the director would be so captivated by her curves that he'd rewrite the casting rules.

"Mr. Kingsley..." Her sultry voice preceded her entrance.

She tugged her plunging neckline lower, fingers brushing the door handle when it suddenly swung open.

Cassandra tumbled forward, landing painfully on the marble floor.

Looking up, her breath caught.

Dominic Blackwood sat shadowed in the corner like a dark prince, his commanding presence dimming the room's lights.

Cassandra paled. Had he discovered her smear campaign against Evelyn?

The man was terrifyingly omniscient.

But Cassandra knew men. She recovered with practiced ease, batting her lashes. "Mr. Blackwood. How...unexpected to see you here under Mr. Kingsley's name."

Her hungry gaze devoured him. Were it not for his four imposing bodyguards, she'd have ripped off her dress already.

Dominic lounged on the sofa, one leg crossed over the other. Cigarette smoke curled around his sharp jawline as he tapped ashes into the tray.

"No games," he said silkily. "Just tell me what you said to Evelyn Sinclair at Monke Dessert Cafe that made her reject my proposal. The CD you gave her - what was on it?"

Though Dominic maintained business ties with the Prescott family, he knew Cassandra was Channing Prescott's illegitimate daughter - beautiful but morally bankrupt.

He'd ignored her until security footage revealed Evelyn's demeanor shifted after their cafe meeting. She'd asked unsettling questions, even mentioned calling off their engagement.

At first, Dominic attributed it to pre-wedding nerves. But after the disastrous ceremony, he needed answers.

His velvet voice struck Cassandra like thunder.

She averted her eyes. How had he uncovered so much? Had Evelyn betrayed their agreement to leave quietly?

Playing dumb, Cassandra pouted. "I don't know any Evelyn Sinclair. CDs? How antiquated. That gold-digger doesn't deserve you. Why not try me instead? No strings attached..."

Bold as ever, she tore her flimsy dress and lunged.

Dominic didn't flinch. His mocking gaze flickered with disgust as a bodyguard kicked her away violently.

Cassandra crashed into the coffee table, ribs screaming in protest. Metallic blood filled her mouth.

Stunned, she gasped, "I'm Lillian's best friend! How dare you-"

Dominic cut her off. "Last chance. What did you tell Evelyn? Who sent you?"

Cassandra switched tactics, bursting into theatrical sobs. "I...I did meet her! Because I'm madly in love with you! My father can vouch how I pine for you day and night! I threatened her to leave you out of jealousy!"

Dominic's glacial stare froze her tears. "Since you crave men so badly, my guards will oblige you today." He stood. "Just don't kill her."

As he exited, the bodyguards opened a leather case revealing terrifying implements - whips, restraints, cruel metal tools.

Though no stranger to kink, these were instruments of pure torture. Used fully, they'd leave her dead.

Cassandra trembled. The gentle facade hid a monster!

As the men advanced, she shrieked her confession: "It was Lillian Prescott! She made me give Evelyn that CD!"