She stepped away from him with a curious look in her eyes. Vic went over to the dresser and picked up a small black velvet box he had placed there earlier. Inside lay a diamond necklace. A delicate silver chain with a teardrop diamond pendant that sparkled.
“Oh, Vic.” Tachina’s eyes widened. She shook her head. “It’s too much.”
“It was my grandmother’s,” he interrupted quietly. “It’s been in my family for decades, and she left it to me in her will when she passed. I want you to wear it. Tonight and hopefully many more nights.”
“You are trusting me with that?” Tachina stared at it.
“I trust you with my and my children’s lives. A necklacecan be replaced.” He wasn’t going to tell her how much it cost when his grandmother had purchased it. By today’s standards, this flawless diamond necklace would cost six figures.
She inhaled sharply and spun around. He fastened it behind her neck, and when she turned to look into the mirror again, she gasped. The diamond seemed made for her. The pendant rested just above her collarbone, catching the light with every movement she made.
His grandmother would’ve loved her. His mother…well, tonight would decide who she would choose.
They left the house shortly after, chauffeured in a luxury black SUV. Alissa was staying with Kian while they went to the mayor’s dinner. Vic held her hand the entire ride, not because she needed it, but because he wanted to.
The Renaissance Hotel glittered with elegance when they arrived. Guests in gowns and tuxedos swept inside. Photographers flashed cameras. Valet attendants moved briskly to park vehicles.
Vic stepped out first and offered his hand to her. When Tachina stepped from the SUV, heads turned. Conversations paused as people stared in awe.
His woman was damn beautiful.
Tachina stood a little straighter, confidence feeding off how the world looked at her.
Inside, the ballroom was vast. High ceilings with golden light, tables set with black linens and towering floral arrangements. City and industry leaders mingled with drinks in hand. A grand stage and podium were set at the front, backed by large digital screens with project placeholders.
The event was formal, refined, and press-heavy.
Tachina’s presentation came midway through the dinner. After speeches from the mayor and a few city council members, it was her turn. Vic watched her walk to the stage with his heart pounding as if it were him going up there. The screen behind her lit up with her designs. She spoke with clarity and purpose.
She talked confidently about her work. All eyes were on her, and not one side conversation was spoken as she presented. When she was finished, the applause was thunderous.
Vic stood and clapped until his palms stung. Pride surged through him with an intensity that took his breath away.
“You did wonderful,” he said when she came back to his side. He kissed her cheek.
“This was more nerve-racking than the last time I presented the Artisan.” She giggled.
He reached for her glass of water on the table and handed it to her.
“Thanks.” She almost downed the entire thing before she set the glass back on the table. She glanced around and blew out a deep breath.
“Time to mingle,” he murmured.
She nodded and slid her hand in his. They walked through the banquet hall together. They shook hands and spoke with guests. The entire time, he couldn’t stop staring at her. She was damn sexy in that dress, but it was more than that. She walked with the poise of a woman who knew she was about to make a difference in the city.
A group of admirers called her over to take a photo with the mayor. She squeezed Vic’s hand and went with them. He stayed behind as she disappeared into the cluster of photographers.
“A few questions, Mr. Maxwell?” someone asked from beside him.
A young reporter stepped forward with a small microphone in one hand and a cellphone in the other. “You’re the primary land developer for the Artisan Avenue, correct?”
“Correct.” Vic nodded.
“Well, we’ve heard a few rumors circulating regarding conflicts of interest. Something about personal relationships influencing the decision on designers for this project. Care to comment on whether or not the decision to use Formand Function Studios was swayed due to personal relations?”
This was the work of one person.
Sydney.