Chapter 47. Chivalry

Victoria’s POV

The auction began with an air of elegance and grandeur, the kind that seemed almost tangible. Each item presented for bidding was a masterpiece, from intricately designed jewelry to breathtaking art pieces. The polished auctioneer commanded the stage, their voice smooth and captivating as they described each lot.

I sat beside Dominic at one of the long tables draped in cream-colored linen, flanked by some of the city’s most influential figures. The hum of whispered conversations buzzed around us, yet my focus seemed to narrow on the man sitting at my side.

Dominic exuded a calm authority, his posture relaxed but his presence magnetic. Every so often, his gaze would shift toward me, ensuring I was comfortable or simply observing, though he never lingered long enough to make it obvious.

“Enjoying yourself?” His low voice drew me out of my thoughts, a small smile tugging at his lips.

“Yes,” I replied, matching his smile. “It’s more li