The morning sun spilled through the tall windows of the Cross mansion, painting the marble floors in gold. Elara adjusted the edge of her blouse, her fingers brushing against the delicate fabric as she walked down the grand staircase. Every step echoed softly, carrying a weight she could feel in her chest. The events of last night, the ballroom, Dante’s eyes, Vivienne’s smirk all lingered in her mind like shadows she could not shake.
She reached the dining room, and immediately her gaze caught Livia across the table. The woman sat with perfect posture, a calculated calmness to her expression that made Elara tense. Livia’s eyes glinted with quiet amusement, a sharp contrast to the soft sunlight around her.
"Good morning, Elara," Livia said smoothly, her voice a melody masking a hidden edg
