Khloe walked up the steps, her silk gown trailing behind her like a liquid shadow.

She took the microphone, smiling brightly at the cameras.

“Welcome, everyone, to the annual Dupont Foundation Gala,” she said.

The crowd applauded politely.

“Tonight, we are here to support global maritime education,” she continued.

I knew the real purpose of the charity was to clean Tristan’s illegal shipping profits.

“Before we begin the bidding on our exclusive items,” Khloe said, “I want to invite my partner, Tristan Carmichael, to say a few words.”

Tristan walked up the steps with practiced ease.

He adjusted his cuffs and smiled warmly at the audience.

“Thank you, Khloe,” Tristan said into the microphone.

“And thank you to all of our distinguished guests.”

He looked out over the crowd, his eyes scanning the room with absolute confidence.

He had no idea I was sitting in the dark above him.

He had no idea his words were already queued on my screen.

“We believe in transparency, in progress, and in building a legacy,” Tristan said.

I leaned forward, my hand resting on the master override key.