After the contract was signed, Seraphina straightened back.
“I have to leave now,” she said smoothly, her voice echoing across the grand hall. “I wish I could stay here with you all and enjoy the night’s festivities, but I am afraid I have other places to be. I’m sorry.”
Her words held grace, but everyone knew she was the kind of woman who never lingered where she didn’t want to.
Mr. Lucien chuckled, waving a hand.
“No, no—I am not in any way mad about it. On the contrary, I am deeply grateful. This contract between Delacroix and the Voss Empire is more than enough. Consider it the finest gift tonight.”
His eyes glimmered with approval, a subtle acknowledgment that even the elites couldn’t dismiss.
“Please,” Lucien added with a knowing smile, “help me extend my greetings to the Presi
