The night air was cool as I stepped out of the car. The gala venue glowed with golden lights, looking like something from a dream.
But my hands wouldn't stop shaking.
It wasn't the crowd that frightened me. It was the message on Arthur's newspaper clipping.
The real legacy starts when the next generation takes the oath.
Victor offered me his arm.
“You don't have to be perfect, Lara. Just be yourself. That's more than enough.”
I took a deep breath and walked inside with him.
The hall was breathtaking. Crystal chandeliers hung from the ceiling, soft music filled the room, and guests in elegant gowns and suits moved between tables.
Yet something felt wrong.
Small groups stood in quiet circles, exchanging secretive glances and checking their phones. They seemed less interested in the
