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The days leading up to the visit passed in a blur, with Maria practically giddy about her upcoming tour of Beatrice’s estate. She’d been telling everyone—Anne, Allen, the maids—anyone who would listen, really, about how Beatrice had personally invited her. The excitement in her voice was impossible to miss, and frankly, irritating. “Honestly, Allen, this could be huge for us,” Maria said for what felt like the hundredth time as she checked herself in the hallway mirror, adjusting the glinting jewelry on her wrist. “You know how people talk, and being seen with someone like Beatrice... well, it’ll open up so many doors for us.” Allen barely looked up from his book. “You mean doors you already kicked open with your usual charm?” Maria ignored his sarcasm, too caught up in her own fantasie
- Writer
