Chapter 81

Chloe’s POV

No disappointment. No relief. Just acceptance.

This wasn’t my moment. Not like this. Not yet.

I glanced briefly toward Drake.

He was watching me, not the stage. His expression was unreadable, but something in his eyes tightened when our gazes met. I looked away first.

The awards continued.

Department recognition. Team excellence. Community impact. Each category unfolded with the same careful choreography. The night moved forward steadily, almost mechanically, as if everyone was determined to stick to the script.

But beneath it all, tension hummed.

Every time a name was announced, eyes darted subtly toward Margaret, gauging her reaction. Every mention of leadership drew attention to Drake. Every applause carried a faint edge, as if people were clapping not just for the winners but for the illusion of stability.

Toward the end, the announcer returned to the podium one final time.

“And now,” she said, “a spe