---- hand.


    She could bet it was from that pervertand of course, it was.


    He was inviting her to meet him privately after her performance at the party.


    Brenda scoffed, crumpling the note and tossing it into the firece, where it crackled and burned instantly.


    "Miss...


    Miss, a footman is waiting for a response.


    What...


    what should I tell him?" the girl asked hesitantly, knowing all too well Brendas terrible temper.


    "Tell him it depends on how] feel after my performance.


    I cant give an answer now, so he should leave," Brenda waved her hand dismissively.


    "Oh, and bring me the other dress from the wardrobethe most eye- catching oneand my sapphire pendant!" she ordered on the spot, already beginning to undress to change.


    She knew Elliot preferred simplicity, but tonight was not a night to be modest.


    Tonight was a night to shineand outshine the wife.


    ook KATHERINE As soon as we stepped down from the carriage, my curious eyes wandered to the grand facade, festive lights twinkling everywhere.


    Guests mingled in the vast garden filled with benches, fountains, and statues of beautiful women pouring water from tall urns.


    "Elliot, what is that?" I asked, pointing to a more distant area.


    Through the trees, shing lights were visible, lively music filled the air, ---- and a massive multicolored tent rose above the cypress and pine treetops.


    "Its themon folk and the mansions staff.


    Thendowner has granted them permission to hold their own celebration.


    Only the security staff are on duty," he exined.


    Topened my mouth in an "0," nodding in understanding.


    "Are you mocking me?" I asked, closing my mouth when I caught the flicker of amusement in his eyes.


    "I must admit, your expression of wonder is quite...


    suggestive." Suggestive? What the hell did that mean? His blue eyes drifted to my lips.


    I could swear my dear Duke was flirting with me.


    Could he be? I had little time to analyze it, as guests quickly approached to greet him.


    Elliot Everhart was one of the most influential figures in this realm.


    Ismiled and nodded at the falsepliments.


    I pretended not to notice the hidden curiosity in the mens gazes and the arrogance and mockery in the womens.


    With poise, I tried to be as hypocritical as they were.


    Iembraced my role as Duchess, truly embodying itsomething my sister had never done.


    That was why these lowborn nobles had openly mocked her to her face.


    Inside the imposing mansion, we gathered in a parlor slightly smaller than the one in our castle.


    The crystal chandeliers reflected the warm light, creating an atmosphere that invited conversation, drinks, and enjoyment.


    ---- Elliot handed me a ss of wine, and I took small sips, savoring the brief moment of peaceone that didntst long.


    Suddenly, the lights dimmed, drawing all attention to the grand staircase at the back, draped in red velvet.


    Aman anda woman stood at the lower steps, dressed in fine attire, and weed us.


    They were the hostsI knew because they had greeted us respectfully upon arrival.


    "Tonight, I know exactly why many of you epted our invitation! You dont have to pretend that its me you adore!" the man joked, making everyone smile.


    "We wont keep you waiting any longer.


    Ladies and gentlemen, please wee the beautiful and iparable Zafiro!" he announced, turning toward the top of the staircase.


    The orchestra began ying a soft symphony, and the melodic voice of a woman filled the hall, silencing the crowd.


    I lifted my head to see her descending.


    The silver dress, clinging to her figure, shimmered like thousands of stars.


    Her pale skin contrasted with her burgundy hairthat rare, exotic shade of red.


    Those features matched Nanas description.


    Every rm inside me went off.