“Do you want a veil?"
“No."
Aniya's voice was steady as she stared at her reflection in the floor-length mirror. Seamstresses fluttered around her like birds, adjusting layers of silk, pinning the waist just right.
“You sure?" Marta asked from the corner. “It softens the photos."
Aniya met her eyes through the mirror. “I'm not here to be softened."
Outside the dressing room, cameras flashed in the halls. The press had been fed a carefully staged version of the day: Maroni princess uniting with De Luca heir. Peace sealed with crystal and lace.
Inside, Aniya counted every step like strategy.
---
The ceremony gleamed.
Velvet aisles. Crystal chandeliers. Gold accents sharp as blades. The mayor sat in the second row, next to the chief of police. Behind them, rival bosses smiled like wo
