At first, Elene wondered if it was some kind of trap, but as the scent of peppermint and grapefruit enveloped her, she let her guard down and realised that Forrest had already visited her room. The man certainly had a knack for working fast.
A black box adorned with a golden ribbon was resting on the plain cotton bedspread. The sunlight from the window glanced off its polished surface, beckoning Elene closer. She pulled the sheer ribbon with hesitant fingers and lifted the lid, gasping as she found a shimmering golden dress inside.
The fabric cascaded like liquid sunshine, each fold designed to catch the light and hold it captive. Elene traced the intricate leaf embroidery over the edges and the glittering beadwork on the bodice. She knew it was customary for Southerners to wear dark gow
