Elara's POV
The conversation between Joshua and another guest about Vivienne's rising social status cut through the banquet hall's ambient noise with painful clarity.
"Damien Thorne has been introducing her to everyone who matters in Baumond," Joshua remarked, swirling his champagne. "I've never seen him go to such lengths for anyone before."
"You think it's serious then?" his companion asked.
Joshua laughed. "When a man like Damien Thorne personally calls in favors to build someone's professional network? I'd say that's about as serious as it gets."
I pretended not to hear, but Julian's concerned glance confirmed he'd caught it too. The words settled into my chest like stones, each one heavier than the last.
"Want to leave?" Julian whispered.
I shook my head. "Not yet. We still need to speak with the Archer Technologies team."
Julian squeezed my arm gently. "They can wait until Monday."
"I'm fine," I insisted, forcing a smile that felt brittle even to me.