I watched as the entire room fell into shocked silence. Arthur's declaration hung in the air, heavy and undeniable. Every eye darted between us, processing what they'd just heard.
"Your wife?" Victoria's voice cracked, her face flushing an unflattering shade of red.
Arthur didn't even look at her. His focus remained solely on me as he moved with deliberate steps to my side. The whispers started immediately.
"Arthur Sterling?"
"THE Arthur Sterling?"
"The CEO of Sterling Group?"
"Caleb's uncle?"
Fiona's smirk had evaporated completely, replaced by a look of pure disbelief. Beside her, Caleb looked like he'd been slapped.
"This reunion dinner appears to have additional seating," Arthur observed coolly. "I trust you won't mind if I join my wife."
It wasn't a question. The event coordinator practically tripped over herself, rushing to arrange another place setting at the main table—directly beside me.
"Of course not, Mr. Sterling! It's an honor to have you join us!"
