They hosted at home.
The dining room was set, white linen, crystal water glasses, low candles. Staff moved like shadows, then melted away. Ashley smoothed her dress once and reminded herself to breathe.
Her parents arrived first. Hugs at the door, steady smiles. Her father shook Julian's hand, plain, respectful, in a way that read, don't make us regret it. Her mother squeezed Ashley's hands as they proceeded to their seats.
"Thank you for coming," Julian said. "Really."
Camilla came next with two of Julian's sisters, cousin Eva and aunt Portia. She didn't hurry, she never did. "Good evening," she said, taking in the room as if she was appraising it. "Your staff has outdone themselves."
"Thank you," Ashley answered.
A soft buzz from security. The butler leaned to Julian. "Miss Sophia is at the gate," he murmured. "With two guests."
Julian looked at Ashley. She nodded. "Please let my sister in," she said. "Her friends will have to head home tonight."
