Chapter 369

Daphne's POV

The lights in the ballroom dropped another degree. Conversation softened into a low hum. I stood at the side of the stage with my hands folded in front of me, the platinum band cold against my skin. A staff member gave me a short nod. It was time.

Finnian walked up the side steps first. He did not look at me. He never did when it mattered. He stopped at the center of the stage, adjust