The Blackwood motorcade came to a smooth stop beneath the glittering entrance of the Grand Monarch Hotel.
Crystal chandeliers shimmered through the towering glass façade, while hundreds of guests in elegant gowns and tailored tuxedos moved gracefully across the red carpet.
The instant the Rolls-Royce door opened, camera flashes erupted like bursts of lightning.
"There they are!"
"Mr. Blackwood!"
"Mrs. Blackwood, this way!"
"Please look over here!"
Sebastian stepped out first.
Without acknowledging the reporters, he turned and extended his hand toward the car.
A slender hand rested in his.
Elara emerged with quiet elegance.
The midnight-blue gown flowed around her as she stepped onto the red carpet, her calm smile never wavering despite the sea of cameras before her.
A murmur sw
