The ballroom remained frozen. No one dared move. No one dared speak. The cheerful atmosphere that had filled the charity gala only minutes earlier had vanished, replaced by an unbearable tension. The waiter stood rooted to the spot, his face pale as the head of security began issuing orders. "Seal every entrance." "No one leaves until Mr. Blackwood gives permission." Security officers spread through the ballroom with swift precision. Guests exchanged uneasy glances. For many of them, this was the first time they had witnessed Sebastian Blackwood's authority outside the boardroom. He had not raised his voice. He had not shown anger. Yet with a few calm words, an entire ballroom had fallen silent. Olivia forced herself to remain composed. Inside, panic clawed at her chest. How

