Vic’s mood cooled instantly.
“Let me be extremely clear. The designer was chosen based on merit, design innovation, sustainability, and public benefit. Any personal attacks circulating regarding this build are nothing more than bitter attempts from someone with no professional involvement and even less credibility.”
The reporter blinked and appeared nervous, but Vic didn’t stop.
“If you’re looking for a headline, here’s one: The city deserves development that puts community first.”
“So you are denying the allegations?”
“Absolutely,” Vic said. “And I suggest you focus on the facts instead of gossip from someone who has no stake in this city’s growth.”
“Umm…thank you for your time,” the reporter stammered. He quickly turned and practically ran away from Vic.
He blew out a deep breath and tried to calm his nerves. He glanced around the room and noticed someone was missing.
Sydney was no where to be found. How peculiar. This would definitely be her type of eventto attend.
Good.
A shift in the crowd pulled his attention. His mother stood by one of the ornate columns, dressed elegantly in a floor-length navy gown. She seemed nervous, which was rare for her. When she met his eyes, she approached him slowly.
“Victor.” She studied him and swallowed hard. “Can we talk?”
Part of him wanted to refuse, but he found himself nodding.
They stepped into the hallway and located a small alcove near a decorative staircase. It was away from the main foyer of the ballroom. Nancy inhaled and paused before she spoke.
“I owe you an apology and I owe Tachina an even bigger one,” she said.
Vic stared at her quietly.
“I’ve been watching you tonight,” she continued. Her voice was steady, but there was a hint of vulnerability in it that he was not used to hearing when she spoke. “The way you look at her. The way she looks at you. That woman loves you. Your son is thriving because of how much the two of you love him. I was blind to not see it.”
He stayed quiet and appreciated her honesty.
“I listened to Sydney because I’ve known her for years. I trusted her more than what I was seeing with my own eyes.” Her voice cracked. Her blue eyes were filled with regret. “That was a mistake, and it’s one I regretdeeply.”
“It hurt.” Vic exhaled slowly.
“I know.” She nodded, tears forming in her eyes. “I want to make it right.”
Footsteps echoed down the hall. Tachina emerged from the bathroom, adjusting her dress slightly. When she saw them, she froze with uncertainty in her eyes. He motioned for her to join them.
She hesitated before approaching.
Nancy turned to her. The tears in her eyes teetered on her lashes.
“Tachina, I’m truly sorry for my behavior. It was never my intention to hurt you. I let someone else’s insecurity influence my judgment. That is not who I truly am. Please forgive me,” Nancy said.
Shock registered on Tachina’s face. She was rendered speechless for a moment.
“Thank you, Mrs. Maxwell,” Tachina stammered. “I’m not sure what to say.”
“You don’t need to say anything. I know better than to listen to gossip. A woman of my age shouldn’t be gossiping. I do apologize, and if there is anything I can do to make up for it, please let me know.” Nancy sniffed.
“You don’t need to do anything. I am just glad the air is cleared. I would never do anything to hurt or take advantage of Vic,” Tachina said.
“I know that now, but I guess I should have known before. You’ve always been kind to me and my husbandwhen you are around.” Nancy offered a tearful smile. “I would love for you, Kian, and Victor to come over sometime this week for dinner. If that’s something you are comfortable with.”