Chapter 41. In Front Of Everyone

Diana's name was on a small brass stand beside the microphone.

She had expected a printed card. For a moment, the engraved letters nearly made her laugh.

“The supplier made one for every presenter,” Kate said, following her gaze. “You can take it home afterward.”

“My mother may get there first.”

“Then have her sign for it.”

Across the lobby, her mother stood with Eva, studying the finished wall. Gabriel was speaking to Nathan near the entrance. He looked up when Diana turned, and his smile was brief and entirely for her.

She had chosen a dark blue dress she already owned. The bracelet was under one sleeve, where only she knew it was there.

When Kate introduced her, Diana walked forward with her notes in her good hand.

The first sentence came out too quickly. She stopped, took a breath, and began again.

After that, she knew what to say.

She showed the replacement sample the factory had sent, made to the same approved sp