The reception erupted with laughter, music, and chatter the moment the ceremony concluded. Lanterns swung gently in the garden breeze, reflecting off the polished tables stacked with food and drink. Guests were already dancing in small circles, clinking glasses, and calling out congratulations across the courtyard.
“Miss Liroux, you look stunning!”
“Mrs. Cross, you have made quite the impression!”
“Congratulations, Lady Evelyn! Master Cross!”
The teasing was good-natured, relentless, and slightly mischievous. The estate staff, who had watched Evelyn grow from a stubborn, sharp-tongued girl into the strong woman she was, found every opportunity to call her Mrs. Cross. Their voices dripped with playful sarcasm. Evelyn laughed, half-shocked, half-delighted, as she waved them off.
Max chu
