The whispers cut short, leaving behind an even sharper curiosity.Those hushed voices blended with the endless clicking of cameras, piercing Madeline’s ears like tiny needles. She could feel the weight of judging eyes, some scornful, some shocked, others brimming with hungry curiosity. Her steps nearly faltered, but Nathaniel guided her steadily, his pace unshaken.Every move of his seemed deliberate, filled with poise and control. His hand gripping hers never wavered, even as guests approached, offering greetings or stealing curious glances. Nathaniel responded with a thin, cold smile, while Madeline kept her gaze lowered just slightly, hiding the panic threatening to break through her carefully maintained calm.They reached the grand hall, a magnificent space with glittering crystals hanging from the high ceiling. The strains of classical music floated gently through the air, yet nothing could mask the tension that now clung to them. Madeline felt her iv
Last Updated : 2025-10-08 Read more