Monaco was a jewel box of decadence and wealth. Mo Chen, under the name "Chloe Moreau," a reclusive Belgian heiress, slipped into its rhythm easily. She attended a charity gala at the Opéra de Monte-Carlo, knowing Lin Wanwan would be there.
She spotted her across the room. The years had been kind to Lin Wanwan. She was still beautiful, with a delicate, bird-like grace, but her eyes held a hardened, calculating glint. She was draped in diamonds that were a little too large, a little too flashy for old money.
Mo Chen observed her. Lin Wanwan was a social parasite, flitting from one wealthy patron to another, her laughter a little too loud, her compliments a little too sharp. She was a prisoner in a gilded cage of her own making, forever dependent on the generosity of others.
During a lull, Mo Chen approached her. "A beautiful event, isn't it?" she said in flawless French.
Lin Wanwan turned, her social smile instantly in place. "But of course. Though the champagne is a bit… pedestrian, don't you think?"
" I've had better," Mo Chen agreed. She let her gaze wander over Lin Wanwan's jewels. "Your necklace is stunning. A family heirloom?"
A shadow crossed Lin Wanwan's face. "A gift. From a… grateful business associate."
" The Thornes were always generous," Mo Chen said casually, watching her closely.
Lin Wanwan's smile froze. Her eyes widened almost imperceptibly. Fear. "I… I don't know what you mean."
" Don't you?" Mo Chen leaned in slightly, her voice dropping. "The final payment was very timely. Right before the gas explosion. Almost like a… retirement package."
Lin Wanwan's face went pale. "Who are you?"
" Let's just say I'm an interested party in unfinished business," Mo Chen said. "Why were the Thornes paying you, Lin Wanwan? What did you do for them?"