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~Elara's POV
My team started coming up, familiar faces, anxious smiles, the ones who held scissors and pins and coffee cups at impossible hours. I felt something warm in my chest, like the night finally settled into place.
The host shifted toward Darlon. "And of course, Alpha Darlon. The Alpha of Alphas. Thank you for supporting this, for trusting this vision, for standing with her in it."
He nodded, not arrogant or boastful. Just… present. "I didn't make the dresses," he said, almost lightly, "but I watched her make them happen. And that was something worth standing behind."
I don't know why, but that line hit me harder than any compliment. Like, he didn't need to be the center to still feel powerful. Like it was enough to hold the space beside me.
The clapping rose again. Louder this time. The kind that vibrates a little in your ribs.
I felt the urge to say something more, so I did. Not polished, not perfect, just honest.
