The blinding storm of camera flashes and shouted questions faded as Dominic and Audrey passed through the massive doors into the relative calm of the event hall. The transition was jarring—from chaotic noise to the soft hum of a string quartet and the low murmur of polished conversation.
Dominic released her hand, his touch lingering for a fraction of a second longer than necessary. "You don't have to speak to anyone you don't want to," he said, his voice low beside her ear. "Just stay close."
She gave a slight, regal nod, her eyes already scanning the room, taking in the sea of jewels, tuxedos, and calculating smiles. She was a lamb entering a den of wolves, but her posture suggested she might have hidden claws.
