lighting, while bursts of lively conversation filled the room. It was the event of the season, and everyone present knew they might walk away with a valuable inside scoop on one of the most pow

tte without overwhelming it with ostentatious adornments. She simply wore a pair of diamond earrings, and her elegantly swept up hairstyle revealed the

it enhanced by a discreet silk pocket square. He didn't need words to express the con

nalists, undoubtedly bolder than the others, made his wa

ou together this evening," he began courteously. "

to cameras or pressing questions; until now, she had always navigated in the shadows. Mr. D

ut," he replied calmly, directing the conver

d no intention of bei

's not every day that a man as influential as you publicly announces his engagemen

schievous smile before respo

agine," she said quietly. "I'm just someone w

ack for a moment, but it wasn'

s are flying around, and some of those close to you say that you're a woman of many talents. Som

act. She hadn't yet revealed her secret role as designer of a high

s all," she replied with a modest smile. "It's impo

He knew she was hiding more than that, and he seemed almost am

e added, his eyes resting tenderly on her. "That's

s words suggested a sincere admiration, and perhaps a deepe

ged to her? » asked another, daring to

rned to Mr. Darcy, eager to know his answer. He was not a m

aid simply, as if those w

art beat a little faster, taken by this unexpected statement. She never imagined that he

t took the opportunity to change the subject slig

al celebrities admire you very much. Tell us, do

it. She remembered her conversations with some famous designers and m

d simply. "I appreciate the talent of many people

, who seemed to be hoping she would say more. Clara, however, kept

ion, Mr. Darcy spoke, his firm v

Clara and I are united in this desire to contribute to an important cause. We thank you f

erstood that they would not get much more this evening. However, there remained a

in this way, was grateful to Mr. Darcy for his discreet protection.

rds her slightly. "Few people would have known ho

y his compliment. She r

from mine after all. It's just a matter

o remain impassive while still commanding attention. He realized that it was not ju

ze growing more intense. "One day, I w

she wondered if she would really be ready to reveal everything to h

changed a knowing smile, she

you discover them... if