The glass doors to the winter garden opened with quiet ceremony, and the soft hum of conversation shifted.
Gabriel entered at the center of it all—flanked by Alexandra on one side, resplendent in green satin and veiled threat, and Irina on the other, her golden hair tucked neatly beneath a pearl comb, posture perfect.
Behind them came two palace attendants bearing trays, followed by a pair of Shadows who lingered just far enough to be invisible to anyone not trained to see them. Their presence was a warning: this was not merely a social visit. The Consort had arrived with intention.
Gabriel moved with fluid grace, ivory and silver catching the filtered light of the ether sconces. His pale coat rippled softly with each step; white gold rings gleamed on his fingers.
He didn't speak as they walked. He didn't need to.
