Candlelight flickered in the magnificent hall, where Lian and Catherine's engagement ball was in full swing.
By the fireplace, the intertwined firelight and lamplight painted a warm tableau, illuminating the gold thread and jewels on the guests' lavish attire.
Beneath the cover of the music, the sound of hushed conversations filled the air like a gentle drizzle.
On the central dance floor, the engaged couple—he in a royal blue tailcoat, she in a light blue gown—danced gracefully to the melody of the string orchestra.
Catherine's long gown shimmered with silver light, like the brightest star in the night sky. Lian's tailcoat was impeccably tailored, exuding an air of aristocratic elegance.
This matching set of engagement attire was also Annie's creation.
Annie had poured too much of herself into this engagement, which was why she was now off to the side, drinking sullenly. Even the noblewomen's constant praise for how stunning Catherine's gown was brought her no joy.
