Three years attending meetings, galas, and family dinners.
She knew every executive.
Every cousin.
Every business partner.
She had never seen this girl before.
Then something happened that made her blood run cold.
Adrian leaned toward Emily and quietly adjusted a loose strand of hair behind her ear.
The movement lasted only a second.
It was gentle.
Protective.
Intimate.
The ballroom erupted with whispers.
Vanessa's heartbeat quickened.
No.
It couldn't be.
At the bottom of the staircase, Adrian smiled at Emily.
"Nervous?"
She laughed softly.
"A little."
"You'll be fine."
"I've never met so many important people."
"They're only people."
She smiled again.
"I don't think they see themselves that way."
Adrian chuckled.
"You're probably right."
Their conversation was warm.
Comfortable.
Natural.
From across the room, Vanessa saw only one thing.
Affection.
The kind she believed belonged only to her.
The master of ceremonies stepped toward the microphone.
"Ladies and gentlemen..."
The orchestra lowered its music.
"We are honored to welcome Mr. Adrian Sterling, Chairman of Sterling International."
Polite applause filled the room.
Adrian thanked the audience with a nod.
Before he could begin speaking—