By the time the clock edged closer to nine, I was already standing in front of the mirror, barely recognizing the person staring back at me.
The white gown fit perfectly… like it had been made with my exact measurements in mind. It traced my figure without clinging too tightly, flowing just enough to soften every line, every edge.
The simplicity of it made everything else stand out more… the way my shoulders looked more defined, the way my posture seemed straighter, more composed.
More… controlled.
I adjusted a small strand of hair near my temple, my fingers slower than usual, almost cautious.
My makeup was light, just enough to enhance without overpowering. Clean. Refined. Expensive.
That was the word that kept echoing in my mind. I looked expensive. Not like someone pretending to
