Applause erupted.
Grant smiled.
Then he said the sentence that sealed everything.
“And I am proud to confirm that Bellamy Holdings has committed $420 million to make this vision possible.”
Julian looked toward Seraphina.
She gave the smallest nod.
Grant finished his speech.
He returned to his seat glowing.
Delaney kissed his cheek.
Mavis applauded from Table Four.
Brielle mouthed, “Amazing.”
Then the lights softened.
The emcee returned.
“Thank you, Mr.
Holloway.”
Grant leaned back.
“Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the chairwoman and controlling shareholder of Bellamy Holdings.”
Everyone turned toward the staircase.
Grant did too.
At first he saw only sapphire silk.
A woman appeared at the top of the stairs.
The room became quiet.
She descended slowly.
One hand rested against the bronze railing.
Diamonds glimmered at her ears.
Her dark hair fell in polished waves over one shoulder.
Her face remained calm.
Grant stared.
His brain refused to understand what his eyes were seeing.
