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AUTHOR’S POV
The grand hall shimmered under the golden glow of the chandeliers, their light casting elongated shadows across the marble floors.
A soft murmur of conversation and the occasional clink of glasses filled the space, yet beneath the grandeur and the carefully orchestrated celebration, a silent war was unfolding.
Charles extended his hand toward Adeline with a grace that spoke of confidence, of certainty.
His fingers, long and steady, stretched out toward her, a silent invitation. Adeline hesitated only for a fraction of a second before placing her delicate hand in his.
The warmth of his palm met hers, firm and unwavering.
The moment their fingers interlocked, a wave of tension rippled through the room—not from the guests, who continued clapping and cheering—bu
