Chapter 65 Staged

• The conference hall buzzed with murmurs as Aemilio took the stage, the lights casting a warm glow over the sleek lines of his suit. Evangelina stood at the side, a tumult of emotions tightening her stomach. She hadn't wanted to come, yet here she was, feeling like an accessory to whatever narrative Aemilio was about to spin. Her thoughts raced back to his words from earlier, the uncertainty laced in every syllable, the guilt shadowing his gaze. And now, she was expected to stand beside him, to play a role in his world.
• Aemilio cleared his throat, and the whispers gradually faded, the audience's eyes fixed on him.
• "I appreciate you all joining us today," he began, his voice steady and commanding, betraying none of the storm she knew he carried beneath the surface. His eyes briefly met hers, softening just for a moment. "I want to address something important. There's been...some speculation recently about my personal life. I understand that these rumors have created quite a stir, and it's only fair to set the record straight."