Ofelia’s POV
By the time everyone had found their seats, I was mentally exhausted. I never imagined smiling could be so tiring. Dinner was served in courses, each one more elegant than the last. Crystal glasses sparkled beneath the chandeliers while soft conversations filled the ballroom. The orchestra had given way to a small live band playing gentle jazz in the corner.
I sat between Victoria and one of the foundation’s board members. Damien sat across from us, discussing business with several executives. Or at least he appeared to be. Every now and then, I caught him looking in my direction. Each time our eyes almost met, one of us looked away first. Usually me.
Victoria happily chatted with everyone at the table, making introductions and laughing at stories I’d already heard twice to
