The hall shimmered that evening. Servants moved with rehearsed precision, carrying silver trays and wine that glowed darkly under the candles. Every seat was dressed, every plate glistened, and every corner hummed with expectation.
Selene stood at the top of the stairs, watching.
The world before her was one she already knew. She knew the laughter that would fill the room, the warmth that would linger on her father's face, and the hush that would fall when the Ashfords arrived.
She remembered it all. She remembered this day.
She remembered the girl who once lived this moment, giggling, flushed, and so terribly hopeful. She remembered the girl who had stood at this very same spot, with nervous fingers twisting her skirt, and her heart hammering at the thought of Damian Ashford's eyes finding hers.
She remembered the girl who had believed that love was enough to make her safe.
