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The masquerade ball had come to an end, and the grand hall was slowly emptying. The once-bustling room was now filled with the soft murmur of conversation as guests made their way toward the exits. Anne and Damien walked side by side, their earlier conversation lingering in the air. Damien’s demeanor had reverted to his usual reserved self, a contrast to the warm interaction they’d shared earlier.
As they approached the Montgomery family, Anne’s anxiety grew. She had heard enough about the Montgomerys to know that they were a formidable bunch, and this was her first real encounter with them. Damien led her confidently through the throng of guests, his posture straight and his expression composed. Anne tried to mirror his confidence, but she couldn’t shake the unease that settled in her
