-Aria-
As I stood before the floor-length mirror in my room, a million thoughts tangled together like rope. The invitation to the banquet had arrived a week earlier—an elegant piece of cardstock with swooping calligraphy that boldly proclaimed “The Grand Gala: An Evening of Dance and Destiny.” Beneath the frippery of fancy wording lay an invitation to navigate the labyrinth of elite society, and if I'd learned anything from my time on stage, first impressions counted for everything.
Dressed in a fitted midnight blue gown that hugged my curves just right—elegant but still comfortable—I took a moment to appreciate the reflection before me. The fabric shimmered, catching the light beautifully as it swayed with my movements. Maria and I had spent hours discussing the outfit, and with each tw
