The applause still thundered through the hall when Ariana finally reached Vincent’s side. Her palm rested in his, warm and steady, while her heart beat so loudly she wondered if the microphone would pick it up.
Vincent gave her a small nod, the kind that said, Stay calm. I am here.
It helped but only a little.
He raised the microphone again. “Thank you,” he said, voice smooth and powerful enough to settle the room. “I know this announcement is unexpected for many of you. I appreciate your grace.” He glanced at Ariana. His gaze softened in a way that made her want the ground to swallow her but also glow at the same time. “In a few days, we will be married. I ask that you welcome Ariana warmly. As you might have noticed, she is very precious to me.”
Awws rippled through the hall again, f
