The car slows to a halt, and Sophia's breath catches in her throat. Through the tinted window, she catches her first glimpse of the venue: a sprawling estate lit up like a jewel, its grand ballroom visible through tall, arched windows. Warm light spills out onto the manicured gardens, reflecting off the polished surfaces of luxury cars pulling up to the entrance. Guests in shimmering gowns and tailored tuxedos glide up the marble steps, their laughter and conversation mingling with the faint strains of a string quartet.
Alexander steps out first, his tall frame commanding instant attention from the valet staff. With practiced ease, he circles around to her door and extends a hand. "Ready?" he asks, his voice steady, as if this were just another business transaction.
