The applause felt endless.
Camille stood beneath the crystal lights of the ballroom while hundreds of eyes followed her every movement.
A few months ago, attention like this would have terrified her.
Now?
Now she lifted her chin gracefully and walked toward the stage like she belonged there.
Because she did.
The silver gown shimmered around her with every step while camera flashes exploded across the room.
Somewhere behind her, Victor whispered dramatically
"She walks like she owns the country."
Elena calmly sipped champagne.
"She practically does."
Camille reached the stage and accepted the award with controlled elegance despite the nervous energy twisting softly inside her stomach.
The host smiled brightly beside her.
"Miss Laurent, the entire country admires your journey. What would you say has been the biggest lesson behind your success?"
The ballroom quieted instantly.
Camille glanced briefly toward the crowd.
Toward Dante.
