A murmur ran through the crowd, speculation finally about to be confirmed.
"Though we've kept her identity private until now to allow her time to acclimate to her new role, many of you have already read about her business achievements." Victoria turned toward the staircase where I waited. "It gives me great pleasure to introduce my daughter and heir, Camille Kane."
My cue. I stepped forward, emerging into view at the top of the staircase. Three hundred faces turned upward, scrutinizing every detail of my appearance, hungry for first impressions they could dissect later in private conversations.
I paused for precisely three seconds, long enough to be noticed, not long enough to seem hesitant, before descending the stairs with practiced grace. The emerald gown whispered against marble ste
