Chapter 288

Chapter 288:

Alexander nodded, taking her hand as they walked toward the door. Just before they reached it, Camille paused.

“Alexander,” she said quietly. “Promise me something.”

“Anything.”

“No more secrets. No matter how painful the truth might be. No matter who asks you to keep it from me.” Her eyes held his, demanding honesty. “Promise.”

Alexander looked at her for a long moment, then nodded. “I promise.”

Camille took a deep breath, then opened the door. It was time to face Victoria again. Time to face the future, however difficult, however painful, that awaited them all.

As Camille stepped inside, she wondered if this was what true strength meant—not the absence of pain, but the ability to carry it without being crushed beneath its weight.

Spotlights swept across the Grand Plaza Hotel’s ballroom, catching on crystal chandeliers that scattered light like diamonds. Beneath them, New York’s elite mingled in formal wear that cost more than most people earned in months. Women draped in silk and jewels. Men in perfectly tailored tuxedos. The soft notes of a string quartet floated above the murmur of conversation and tinkling champagne glasses.

Camille Kane stood just outside the ballroom doors, watching through the slight crack. Her blue gown shimmered in the dim light of the hallway, but she had never felt less festive.

“Security check complete,” said Jason, Alexander’s head of security, into his earpiece. “Main floor is clear. Balconies and kitchens clear. All entrances covered.”

Camille nodded, barely hearing him. Her thoughts remained with Victoria, who was gathering her strength in a private room upstairs before making her entrance.

“Camille.” Alexander’s voice brought her back to the present. He stood beside her in his tuxedo, handsome as ever, though worry lined his eyes. “Everyone’s waiting. It’s time.”

She smoothed her dress, checking her reflection in a nearby mirror. Hours of professional makeup had hidden the evidence of her tears, but nothing could conceal the sorrow in her eyes.

“I can’t believe we’re doing this,” she whispered. “Pretending everything is normal when Victoria—”

“Following her wishes,” Alexander cut in gently. “Being exactly who she’s always been.”

Camille touched the phoenix pendant at her throat. “I just want to keep her safe.”

“I know.” Alexander squeezed her hand. “That’s why we have thirty security personnel in the ballroom alone. Another twenty covering the surrounding blocks. Two teams on the roof. Nothing gets through tonight.”

Camille wished she could believe him. But the dread that had haunted her since her nightmare remained, hovering at the edges of her mind like a shadow.

“Ms. Kane?” Another security guard approached. “Ms. Victoria Kane is ready for you.”

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