"I'm proud of you, Annabelle," Richard's voice came through the phone, making Blair's heart skip a beat. Her father rarely called her by her real name anymore.
"Thank you, Dad. I'll do my best," Blair replied softly, then glanced at her phone screen. She slipped the device back into her gown's pocket, drew a deep breath, and seamlessly rejoined the elegant affair unfolding around her.
The grand ballroom buzzed with refined conversation and the gentle clink of champagne glasses. Crystal chandeliers cast a warm glow over the gathering of diplomats, business magnates, and political figures who had come together for this exclusive charity gala. Blair moved through the crowd with practiced grace, her emerald silk gown catching the light as she navigated between clusters of distinguished guest
