Chapter 7

Adeline’s POV

Several days later…

As I stepped into our grand dinner hall, my heart raced with anticipation. The soft glow of candlelight danced across the ornate walls, casting intricate patterns onto the polished marble floors. My parents had spared no expense in preparing for this evening, determined to make a favorable impression on our future in-laws.

I smoothed down the delicate fabric of my gown, a vision of ivory silk and intricate lace that had been painstakingly tailored for this moment. The corseted bodice hugged my figure, while the full skirts swirled around my ankles with every step. It was a gown fit for a princess, or so my mother had insisted, and yet, as I looked into the mirror, I couldn't shake the feeling of unease that gnawed at my stomach.

"Adeline, darling, you look positively radiant," my mother gushed, her eyes shining with pride as she adjusted the pearls around my neck. "You're going to make a lovely impression on the Graysons."

I managed a tight-lipped smi