I watched another winner leave the stage as the applause slowly faded.
The host smiled before moving on to the next category, keeping the evening moving without rushing it.
I glanced around the ballroom.
People seemed more relaxed now.
The early nerves had disappeared, replaced by easy conversation whenever there was a break.
I looked back at Cole.
He still hadn't taken his eyes off the stage for long.
He was ready whenever his moment came.
"And now," the host said with a smile, "we've reached our final award of the evening."
The ballroom grew quiet.
"This award recognizes a lawyer whose work has set the standard for excellence over the past year. Someone whose dedication to the law, commitment to their clients, and respect within the legal community have made a lasting impact."
