Blake straightened his jacket.
He expected to hear his company’s name.
Instead, the host smiled toward the upper balcony.
“For many years, the founder of Fairchild Capital has chosen privacy over public attention. Tonight, she has decided to step forward.”
The doors at the top of the staircase opened.
Arden appeared beneath the warm white lights.
Her sapphire gown moved softly as she descended. Her dark hair fell in polished waves over one shoulder, and her grandmother’s necklace reflected the light with every step.
Two members of her executive security team followed several feet behind her.
The ballroom became silent.
Blake stood so quickly that his chair struck the table.
Sloane’s hand slipped from his arm.
Lenette stared at Arden as if she were looking at a stranger.
Corinne lowered her phone, but her livestream continued.
“That cannot be her,” Blake whispered.
Arden reached the bottom of the staircase and walked toward the stage.
