Launch party night had finally arrived, and it was electric. The Peninsula Hotel grand ballroom in Manila sported a glittering sheen. Gold accents lined the walls, while emerald drapes cascaded from the ceiling, setting the stage for a night of grandeur. The moment I stepped into that room, clutching Jason's arm, I couldn't ignore the dozens of eyes turned toward me.
"Wow," Jason breathed, leaning in closer. "Miss Ruth sure knows how to make an entrance."
I shot him a sideways glance, my lips twitching into a smile. "You're laying it on thick tonight, aren't you?"
He grinned, confidence oozing as he drew me deeper into the room. "Can you blame me? You look stunning. You've got the whole room captivated."
I gazed down at the sapphire-blue gown clinging to my frame. Its slit daring, but
