The ballroom buzzed with conversation again.
Guests drifted between tables, discussing investment opportunities, medical breakthroughs, and the evening's award winners.
But one topic dominated every conversation.
Evelyn Hart.
The woman who had seemingly appeared out of nowhere had become the center of the country's business world.
At the foot of the grand staircase, photographers continued taking pictures as executives congratulated the award recipients.
Evelyn accepted each compliment with quiet grace.
"Congratulations, Chairwoman Hart."
"Your speech was inspiring."
"NovaGene's future looks brighter than ever."
"Thank you," she replied with the same warm smile each time.
She neither rushed anyone nor lingered unnecessarily.
Damien watched from a short distance away.
"You've b
