The grand ballroom fell silent once again.
Every conversation ceased as the unfamiliar man crossed the polished marble floor with measured confidence.
He carried himself with quiet authority, neither hurried nor hesitant.
His tailored navy suit was impeccable, and the silver watch at his wrist hinted at understated wealth rather than ostentatious luxury.
He stopped a respectful distance from Elara.
For a long moment, he simply looked at her.
His usually composed expression softened with unmistakable emotion.
"I never thought..." he said quietly, "...that I'd find you."
Elara frowned.
"I'm sorry... have we met before?"
The man gave a small, apologetic smile.
"No."
"At least... not in a way you would remember."
Before Elara could respond, Sebastian stepped forward.
His movement
