I held the linen towel securely around my chest, taking a small, steadying breath before unlocking the heavy chamber door.
I pulled it open, stepping back to let the head maid and her two assistants carry the garment inside. The moment the velvet cover was unzipped, my breath caught in my throat.
The dress was magnificent—an absolute masterpiece of dark tailoring and high-born luxury. Crafted from heavy midnight-navy silk that shimmered with an iridescent violet undertone in the candlelight, the bodice was sculpted with sharp, corseted silver boning that flared into a sweeping, floor-length train. Delicate filigree embroidery stitched in real silver thread lined the hemline, catching the light like crushed starlight. It looked obscenely expensive, commanding, and royal.
I couldn't help the genuine, breathless smile that broke across my face as I gently traced the smooth silk sleeve with my fingertips.
