A representative had just finished presenting at the Apollo Construction event, standing tall at the podium with the confident presence expected from someone entrusted with opening such a high-profile ceremony. She welcomed the guests warmly, thanking everyone for being present to witness the unveiling of Apollo Construction’s newest partnership announcement. Cameras clicked, murmurs traveled through the hall, and everything felt polished, controlled, and perfectly in order.
That order shattered the moment Celia began walking toward the stage.
Thomas, watching from their table, stiffened immediately. His voice was low but sharp as he muttered, “What the hell is she doing?” His eyes followed her with a mix of annoyance and alarm. Celia was not meant to be on stage—not now, not as part of
