Aria pov
Applause filled the ballroom as cameras flashed. I felt Damien's thumb stroke across my knuckles, hidden behind the podium.
As we stepped down from the stage, people surrounded us immediately. Questions flew from all directions.
"Ms. Monroe, how will this affect Monroe Global's international operations?"
"Mr. Blackwood, what prompted this decision?"
"Will there be restructuring?"
"How will dual CEO leadership work in practice?"
Damien fielded questions smoothly, his hand still holding mine. When someone asked about our "personal relationship," he simply said, "We're focused on building a successful business partnership."
The non-answer spoke volumes.
Finally, after what felt like hours of schmoozing and answering questions, Damien leaned close, his breath hot against my ear. "Let's get out of here."
"We can't just leave our own announcement party."
"Watch me." His hand slid to the small of my back. "We've done our duty, i need to get you alone."
