Vivienne POV

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The reception finally wound down, and the weight of the night pressed on me like a heavy cloud. I was done, tired of Damien’s sly digs, Sophia’s cold stares, and that crazy woman’s threats still ringing in my ears. All I wanted was to slip away, find a quiet spot to breathe without everyone watching me.

The night ended faster than I expected, with piles of gifts stacked high, tycoons and socialites tossing congratulations like confetti, and some even whispering about ...