Chapter Twenty-Four
By the time Arabella arrived at the dining hall doors, her heart was already beating faster than usual.
Two guards stood stationed at the entrance like unmoving statues. The moment they saw her approach, they bowed slightly and pushed the grand doors open.
Arabella stepped in alone, Lily remained behind, as custom demanded.
The sight that greeted her nearly stole her breath away.
Her eyes widened in astonishment.
She had eaten in this hall before, but tonight… it was completely different.
The long dining table she remembered had been transformed into something far more magnificent. Elegant lights hung from above, casting a warm golden glow across the room.
The entire hall shimmered with quiet luxury. Rows of neatly lined maids stood at attention along the walls, their presence both graceful and intimidating.
Everything felt… grander.
More deliberate.
More dangerous.
Her gaze slowly moved across the room until it landed on the table.
