The morning sun broke gently through the long curtains of Emilia Grace’s bedroom. A soft floral breeze drifted in through the open window, but it wasn’t what woke her.
It was the scent—floral, delicate, and familiar.
She blinked, then sat up slowly, her breath catching in her throat.
Chrysanthemums.
Hundreds of them.
Delicate blooms in ivory, blush, and soft lavender filled the entire room. They lined the window sills, spilled across the vanity, nestled in vases on every surface. The air was soaked with their quiet, noble fragrance.
Her bare feet touched the rug, and as she stood, her eyes were drawn to the center of the room.
A dress.
It stood like a sentinel on a pale gold mannequin. Soft champagne silk, layered with organza and shimmered tulle, catching the morning light like st
