[Pauline's House]
The morning sunlight filtered softly through the tall windows of Pauline's living room, casting warm patches of light across the polished wooden floor.
Two weeks.
That was all that stood between now and the wedding.
Evelyn sat beside Alexander on the couch, his arm resting loosely behind her, not quite around her but close enough to be reassuring.
Margaret occupied her usual chair, cane leaning against the armrest, posture sharp and attentive and Pauline sat across from them, hands folded neatly in her lap, listening more than speaking.
"So," Margaret said briskly, breaking the lull. "There is one thing we need to settle before we get lost in flowers and guest lists."
Evelyn straightened slightly. "What is it?"
Margaret glanced at Pauline before continuing. "The post-wedding ritual."
Alexander frowned faintly. "Ritual?"
