Chapter 35

Theo's POV The gala was in full swing around me—laughter, animated chatter, and the constant clinking of crystal glasses creating a symphony of high society at its finest. Conversations flowed between tables as guests networked, reminisced, and celebrated the evening's honorees. The charitable cause that had brought us all together seemed secondary to the social maneuvering happening in every corner of the ballroom. But my mind wasn't on the party, the awards, or even the potential business connections surrounding me. It was on Claire. She'd been gone far too long. What should have been a quick trip to the restroom had stretched into twenty minutes, then thirty. Each passing minute amplified the worry gnawing at me, dark possibilities flashing through my mind like unwelcome film reels. Especially tonight—she looked so breathtaking in that emerald gown, transformed into the kind of woman who could stop traffic and start wars. I wouldn't be surprised if someone had noticed her, followed