The atmosphere in the Kurogane estate was a mix of excitement and tension as the family prepared for the momentous meeting. Alaric paced back and forth in his room, his nerves fraying with each tick of the ornate clock on the wall. Despite his usual calm and composed demeanor, the gravity of the occasion weighed heavily on him. This wasn't just about his marriage to Evelyn; it was about representing his family, upholding their legacy, and proving their worth to the Blackwoods.
A soft knock at the door broke his chain of anxious thoughts. "Come in," he called, straightening his posture.
Gilbert entered, his expression as steady as ever. He carried a tray with a steaming cup of tea, setting it down on the table before addressing his master. "Master Alaric, you seem tense."
"I am," Alaric admitted. "This isn't just any meeting, Gilbert. It's about tradition, about perception. What if—"
