The mirror reflected you like a magical portal to another life. The emerald dress, shimmering with all shades of noble stone, clung to her figure, emphasizing the embroidery, which shimmered like frozen jewels. Every stitch, every bead is the result of the painstaking work of the best craftsmen. Tonight, you made your debut not just at the ball, but at the ball of opportunity. A ball that opens the doors to a world of exclusive contacts, a world that became mine after the unexpected–and, frankly, a little frightening–inheritance of Aunt Annette's business.

It wasn't just a luxury, it was a responsibility. Aunt Annette, a woman with the grasp of a tigress and the strategic thinking of a genius, has left you an empire built on a delicate balance of business relationships and an impeccable reputation. And now, standing in front of this mirror, you felt not only awe of the upcoming evening, but also a certain anxiety. Can you do it? Can you hold on to it all?

Suddenly, the door opened and Alexander entered the room. His usually stern face, chiseled by years of hard work, was... softer. More relaxed. He stopped at the threshold, his gaze swept over you, lingering on the dress. In his eyes, usually cold and calculating, you saw surprise mixed with something else... admiration? Maybe. The silence dragged on before he seemed to come out of his own thoughts and said:

— «Why didn't you say you needed to hire armed guards?»

He was followed by Sam, a young man with a model-like appearance rather than a fighting one. His grin was wide and mischievous.

— «Because you're going to have to be beaten off by a crowd of fans, and I didn't take a gun.»