The moment Fiona Whitmore's words settled over the group, the atmosphere shifted.
"So this is the young woman who changed everyone's plans."
Silence followed. Not because her voice was loud. Because everyone understood exactly what she meant.
Alicia felt dozens of eyes drift toward her. Theodore Hayes remained calm. Alexander remained unreadable. Vanessa stood beside her grandmother, elegant and composed, as though she hadn't just become the center of attention.
People weren't simply looking at Alicia. They were looking at both of them — measuring, comparing, deciding. The weight of it pressed against her chest like a hand.
Fiona's sharp eyes settled on Alicia.
"You're younger than I expected."
Alicia smiled politely. "And you're exactly as intimidating as everyone said."
A few nea
