The Maynard Group's annual gala glittered beneath a canopy of chandeliers, the ballroom transformed into a shimmering sea of champagne light and quiet luxury. Waiters glided between guests with trays of crystal flutes and delicate hors d’oeuvres, the air rich with laughter, perfume, and soft piano music.

Stefan had concluded from his almost two weeks of being CEO that he preferred being in the background, so he'd let Emily handle most of the speeches, only backing her up when necessary. She ...