The grand chandeliers cast a warm, golden glow across the sprawling hall of the old family manor, its dark wood-paneled walls and antique furnishings exuding a sense of timeless elegance. Laughter and low conversation filled the space as well-dressed guests mingled, their voices blending with the soft hum of classical music. Charlotte stood near the grand staircase, her champagne glass held delicately in her hand, her expression calm and composed. Dressed in an emerald gown that hugged her slender figure, she was the epitome of grace, though her eyes carried a subtle edge of steel that few could see beyond her genteel facade.

The evening had progressed smoothly, but Charlotte’s gaze kept drifting toward the large mahogany doors at the entrance, where her husband should have arrived hours ago. The gathering was, after all, in her parents’ honor

Her glare didn’t soften as she strode over to you once the doors swung open

“my parents have been asking why my husband can’t manage to be on time to his own family’s gathering, so you better have a valid excuse.”