Fake Mate Beta Rises to Alpha Heiress (Natalie) novel Chapter 26

**Chapter 26: Strike Right at the Crucial Point**

**Natalie’s POV:**

My speech unfolded over the span of five minutes, each second filled with a rhythm that felt both exhilarating and surreal. I navigated through my words with an ease that surprised even me—no stumbles, no hesitations. The language flowed effortlessly, the content radiated professionalism, and I even managed to sprinkle in a few light-hearted quips that brought a smile to the audience’s faces.

As I concluded, a brief silence enveloped the hall, a collective breath held in anticipation. Then, like a storm breaking, applause erupted. It was as if the very walls of the venue shook with the thunderous clapping, and cheers rang out, echoing my unexpected triumph.

They had underestimated me, a mere young girl, inexperienced and seemingly unworthy of the stage. But here I was, standing before them, proving them all wrong. How could they have thought that a powerful Alpha like Alexander would hand over his empire to just anyone?

With a graceful bow, I stepped away from the stage. My heart raced, a wild drumbeat in my chest, yet the overwhelming sensation of having earned recognition through my own merit was indescribably euphoric.

During my speech, my mind had repeatedly replayed the footage of Leonardo’s live stream from the previous night. He and the other esteemed speakers had an impeccable control over their rhythm, their remarks sharp and laced with wit. While I might not have grasped every profound concept they discussed, the intensity in their eyes—filled with conviction and a commanding presence—had left a lasting impression on me.

Unconsciously, I had mirrored that demeanor, and to my surprise, the effect was remarkable.

“Natalie, you really blew me away,” Liam exclaimed, his eyes wide with admiration. He was well aware of my major, yet he hadn’t anticipated my ability to speak with such eloquence and improvisation, all without the safety net of a prepared script.

I offered him a smile, my heart still fluttering from the performance, and shared with him the story of the blank teleprompter screen that had nearly derailed me.

Liam frowned, his expression serious. “That was my oversight. I never imagined someone would resort to such a cheap trick at an event of this caliber.”

“Do you think it was Penelope?” I asked, my instincts leading me to suspect her immediately.

“It’s hard to say,” Liam replied cautiously. He wasn’t particularly fond of Penelope and had a low opinion of her, but he hesitated to jump to conclusions without solid evidence, not wanting to add unnecessary stress to an already tense situation.

This entire farce only solidified the notion that countless eyes lurked in the shadows, watching my every move, waiting for the “mixed-blood heir” to stumble and make a fool of herself.

As the speeches came to a close, the banquet officially commenced. However, Liam and I found ourselves seated apart. He had wanted to escort me to my place, but duty called him away mid-process.

“It’s just dinner,” I reassured him. “I can find my seat.” Each table was marked with name cards, and I was confident I could locate mine.

But as I wandered from table to table, my confidence waned. I searched in vain, yet my name was nowhere to be found.

By now, most guests had settled into their seats, and I stood alone once again, the center of unwanted attention. The banquet manager approached, a kind smile on his face. “Ms. Anderson, service will begin shortly. Please take your seat.”

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