The ballroom shimmered with light, chandeliers sparkling like frozen stars overhead.
Glasses clinked, laughter mingled with soft music, and the murmur of conversation created a warm, bustling hum.
Anabelle moved through it all with ease, a glass of sparkling water in her hand, her dress hugging her frame in a way that made her feel elegant yet entirely herself.
“Anabelle, over here!” a colleague called, waving from across the room.
She smiled and approached, nodding politely to others as she passed.
“Good evening,” she said, her voice calm and measured, carrying confidence she hadn’t felt in years.
“You look amazing,” her colleague said, offering a small bow.
“Thank you,” she replied, laughing softly. “It’s been a busy few weeks, but I’m finally starting to feel settled.”
As she
