Meredith gazed out the window. Despite the excitement of her impending nuptials, a palpable sense of anticipation lingered within her.
The pristine white chamber was beautifully adorned, befitting the grand celebration of her wedding. Tonight would mark the day Meredith officially became Alex's wife.
After consulting the officiant, it was deemed that nightfall would be the most auspicious time to hold the ceremony. With both families' consent, the event was scheduled to take place as the sun dipped below the horizon.
"Why do you keep looking out, Mer?" inquired one of her friends, who were mostly the grand duke's fan club members.
"Anna has not arrived yet," Meredith replied, a hint of solemnity in her tone.
"By Anna, you mean... the Grand Duke's concubine?" her friend asked again.
Sylvia, who was among them, approached the bride and discreetly adjusted a loose ornament in Meredith's hair, ensuring it was neatly in place.