PENINSULA MANILA – GRAND BALLROOM
The Peninsula’s grand ballroom had never looked more magnificent.
Under the enormous chandeliers, the entire hall shimmered in hues of gold. Every crystal reflected the brilliance of the night, as though even the lights themselves bowed in honor of the young woman the world was about to meet. Guests mingled, their laughter blending with the soft hum of the orchestra tuning their instruments.
Waiters glided smoothly between clusters of elites—politicians, business magnates, international guests—each more intrigued than the last. Rumor had spread like wildfire:
The Ellison heir is celebrating her debut.
And the entire hotel is hers tonight.
A soft wave of anticipation rolled through the hall.
Then, the side doors opened.
The grand entrance of the Pai
