Morning sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling windows of Monroe Atelier.
The studio buzzed with its usual energy as designers hurried between mannequins and cutting tables.
Aria stood before a dress form, carefully pinning a strip of silk to a champagne-colored evening gown.
"Move the waistline up by two centimeters," she instructed calmly.
"It'll make the silhouette more elegant."
"Yes, Ms. Monroe," one of the designers replied.
Just then, Lily walked in holding a gold-embossed envelope.
"Ms. Monroe."
Aria looked up.
"What is it?"
"An invitation."
Lily handed it over.
Aria opened it and silently read the elegant lettering.
The Royal Elite Fashion Charity Gala.
Hosted by the Country E Fashion Association.
Attendance by invitation only.
Her eyes paused at the final
