(Grace’s POV)
The gala is being held at the Grand Avalon Hotel—the most prestigious venue in the city. The ballroom is massive, with crystal chandeliers hanging from the ceiling and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city skyline.
It's beautiful.
And daunting.
Our car pulls up to the entrance, where photographers are already gathered. Flashes go off as other guests arrive, and my stomach twists into knots.
"Ready?" Dorian asks.
No. I'm not ready. I might never be ready.
This is the first public event we’re attending together, and I’ll be lying if I said I’m not nervous.
But I nod anyway.
The valet opens my door, and I step out onto the red carpet. Immediately, cameras flash. Voices call out.
"Mr. Cross! Over here!"
"Who's your date, Mr. Cross?"
"Is it the rumored Mrs. Cro
