Chapter 140
The sky outside the window had darkened, the brilliant sunset swallowed by a brooding, purple-gray gloom. It mirrored the turmoil churning within my own chest. The boutique, with its exquisite silks and dreamlike sketches, already felt like a lifetime away.
With a smile that didn't reach her eyes, Mother turned to Madame Evangeline. "Thank you so much for your time and artistry," she said, her voice carefully controlled. "We'll be in touch soon to finalize everything."
Madame simply nodded. "It was my pleasure. I look forward to creating a truly special gown for Alayna."
The air was thick with unspoken words as we made our way out of the boutique. The bell above the door chimed, a final, jarring note.
