The ballroom shimmered beneath golden chandeliers, the soft glow casting everything in a dreamlike haze. Laughter mingled with the clinking of crystal glasses, the faint notes of an orchestra drifting through the air. Women in designer gowns floated between conversations, and men in crisp suits stood in polished circles, their voices rich with money and power.
Isabelle took a slow breath, steadying herself.
She hadn’t wanted to come tonight. Not without Marcus. But with him out of town, she’d almost convinced herself to stay home—almost.
Until Sebastian.
One simple offer. A look she couldn’t quite decipher.
And against her better judgment, she had said yes.
Now, she stood beside him, her navy silk gown clinging to her curves, the delicate diamond bracelet on her wrist catching the li
