In the Shadow of Prestige

Halfway through cocktail hour, as Elizabeth chats with a group of distinguished donors, Marilena's phone buzzes quietly in her clutch. She discreetly pulls it out and reads the message. It's from Carla: We're at the entrance. Where are you?

Marilena smiles faintly and tilts the phone toward Christian. He glances at it, then back at her with a questioning look. "Want me to come with you?" He asks in a low voice.

She hesitates for a moment before nodding. "Yeah, I think that's a good idea."

Christian stands smoothly, extending his hand to guide her through the crowd. As they step out of the ballroom, his hand finds its usual spot at the small of her back, offering steady reassurance. The elegant lighting of the grand lobby glints off Marilena's dress as they walk toward the entrance.