One Damn Word

Vivienne’s POV

As we reached the final step of the grand staircase, the soft hum of conversation died down. A sea of eyes turned upward. Champagne flutes froze mid-air. And just like that, every single guest in that ballroom became an audience member to the performance Valentin and I were about to put on.

He didn’t hesitate. Of course he didn’t. Valentin could command a room even if he stood in co