Richard’s phone buzzes. He checks the screen and tucks it back into his pocket. “We all want the same thing, Lia. To rally around our new Chicago. To watch our city thrive. The people of this city need something to rally around right now.” He talks with such ease. It surprises me.

“Why are you doing this?”

“This city has taken a liking to you.” Richard takes a step closer. I swear he does it to intimidate me. “They would love to stand behind you.”

“Which is why you want me to stand next to the mayor.” At an event that’s controversial for him to attend.

Richard smiles. “We’ll let you stand next to Cullen.”

My fists ball at my sides. “You’re going to have to find yourself someone else.”

Richard checks his phone again. He dismisses it, puts it back into his pocket, regards the Chicago skyline. “As you already know, this city is dangerous, Lia. The mayor is willing to protect you in any way he can if you’re willing to help him.” Richard lowers his chin, creating thick folds in his puffy neck. “I would hate for you or your mom or anyone else you care about to find themselves in another unfortunate situation. They seem to happen so readily these days.”

My head grows light. Black spots crowd my vision, and I blink them away. Richard’s threat is clear. If I don’t play along, they will continue to kill off the people I love. This is about tormenting me. Controlling me. Making me do their bidding.

“This is in the city’s best interest, but it’s also in your best interest. It’s a good opportunity for everyone.” Richard looks down at his phone. “I’ve got to take this one.” He holds up his finger, signaling for me to wait.

I stand in a tiny courtyard at the bottom of the Ferris wheel, between groups of people milling about. Kids scream and laugh on the carousel and the swing ride as my thoughts whirl. As angry as I want to be at what he’s forcing me to do, I keep getting hung up on the word opportunity. Hundreds of people who already hate the mayor will be at the gala. Cameras will be there. Could I somehow use this to my advantage? Make it my opportunity to expose him?

Richard puts his phone into his coat pocket. “We can arrange for you to have something to wear. We’ll send it to your house.”

“Something that will look good on camera,” I say through clenched teeth, but my words are drowned out by someone shouting nearby. I don’t realize the yelling is aimed at us until I catch my name.