Zara's POV

The lights from the camera flashes hit me like lightning as Leo and I stepped out of the ballroom. The air was heavy outside with the roar of paparazzi, like flies circling abandoned food. Microphones were thrust into our faces as their voices screamed over one another.

"Miss Zara, why did you hide your identity? "

"Why now, why did you choose this moment to reveal yourself?"

"Who is this man beside you?"

Leo didn't flinch. He raised his brow. Calm and settled, he reached down and entwined his fingers with mine. His hand was warm, steadying me as I tried to maintain my poise. He held my...