Maybe she could not guess that the reason everyone stared at her with awe was nothing but her undeniable, striking elegance that she radiated.
Mary, true to her impeccable training, maintained the standard two-step distance behind both of us, her chin tucked but her eyes scanning our surroundings like a hawk.
The estate footman silently guided our trio past the grand marble fountain and towards the towering arched doors of the main entrance.
Standing right at the threshold to receive the arriving guests was the very same head butler who had managed the estate during the tense imperial sweep just days prior.
The butler made direct eye contact with me first. Recognizing me, a subtle, warm smile touched his lips, and he gave a respectful, formal nod of greeting.
