“Security!” Cohen’s voice boomed from the perimeter. Three guards in black suits rushed toward Melanie, reaching for her arms.
“No!” Melanie cried, shrinking back. “Please!”
“Stop!”
The command cracked through the air like a whip. It came from William. He stepped down from the dais, his hand raised. “Stand down. Let her breathe.”
The guards froze. William walked slowly across the dance floor, Victoria close at his heels. He stopped three feet from the intruder, staring into those familiar, haunting eyes. He felt a biological pull, a recognition that defied logic.
“Who are you?” William asked, his voice low.
Melanie looked at him, trembling. She held out the manila envelope with shaking hands.
“I didn’t want to ruin your party,” she whispered, tears spilling over her lashes. “I didn’t know where else to go. I just wanted to meet my brother.”