The grand hall was filled with golden light, and the towering chandeliers cast long, delicate shadows across the polished marble floor. The rich aroma of burning incense wafted through the air, mixing with the expensive perfumes and the layered, complex undertones of noble pheromones. Laughter and murmured conversations created a tapestry of courtly politics that was subtle, refined, and ever-present.
Gabriel walked into the hall with measured steps, his face composed but his mind racing.
He had barely finished his conversation with Edward when he found himself back in the public eye, where every movement was scrutinized and every flicker of emotion judged. He could already feel curious eyes settling on him, lingering for just a beat longer than the previous nights.
Tonight, he would stand in front of Damian, before the entire court, and formally acknowledge him.
