The flash of cameras exploded in blinding succession, lighting up the entrance of the grand ballroom like a storm of starlight.

The annual Montgomery Foundation Charity Gala was in full swing — a glittering affair held in a five-star hotel, overflowing with society’s elite, business moguls, and an ocean of reporters.

And then, through the doors, came them — Arga and Vania, side by side.

The crowd erupted.

> “Vania! Is this your first public appearance with Arga?”

“Are you two officially together?”

“How does the Montgomery family feel about this?”

Vania froze for half a second, overwhelmed by the flashes and the barrage of voices. Every camera lens seemed...