Morning arrived gently at the Duke residence, wrapped in soft golden sunlight and the distant sound of preparations.
Today was not an ordinary day.
It was the beginning of something new—
A union.
A celebration.
A moment that would bind two families together.
—
Servants moved quickly across the courtyards.
Silk fabrics were carried from one hall to another.
Jewelry boxes were opened and inspected.
Flowers were arranged carefully along the corridors.
—
Everywhere—
There was life.
—
But beneath that liveliness—
There were also quiet emotions.
Unspoken thoughts.
Hidden worries.
—
In the inner courtyard—
The Aunt sat silently near the window.
Her hands rested in her lap.
Her gaze distant.
—
She should have been happy.
Her son was getting married.
The family was filled with joy.
—
And yet—
Her heart felt heavy.
—
Her husband, seated beside her, watched quietly.
He had noticed it long ago.
—
"You haven't smiled since morning," he said gently.
—
