Roman’s words felt like a slap to Grayson’s face. His eyes quickly reddened in anger, his fists clenched by his side.
“Is this a joke?” Grayson whispered.
The room fell silent, the only sounds were the clicking of heels down the staircase, and all eyes followed the sound as a figure slowly descended.
Roman’s words hung in the air like a live wire.
“Ladies and gentlemen….My fiancée,” he said.
Tessa walked toward him, her footsteps poised. Her father stayed behind, proud but watchful. She reached Roman’s side, and he turned slightly, offering his hand.
He looked at her like he was memorising her face, like the chaos around them didn’t exist.
“This beautiful woman,” Roman said, voice low but steady, “isn’t just my future. She’s the reason I still have one.”
Applause broke out again —
