The sun had barely risen when Evelyn woke to the sound of soft knocking at her door. It took Emily—no, Evelyn—a moment to remember where she was. The grand four-poster bed, the heavy lavender gown hanging neatly on a chair, the faint scent of roses wafting in through the window… none of it felt natural, but she steeled herself. This was her life now, and she had to act the part.
"Come in," Evelyn said, adjusting her voice to sound composed yet approachable. Mary entered, carrying a tray with breakfast and a fresh bouquet of flowers. The maid's usual nervousness had eased slightly since yesterday's events.
"Good morning, Evelyn," Mary said, hesitating briefly before using the name Evelyn had insisted on. "I thought you might like to have your meal here. It's a busy day ahead."
Evelyn sat up straighter. "Busy? What's planned?"
Mary placed the tray on a small table and began pouring tea. "Lady Fairfax is hosting a gathering this afternoon at her estate. Many of the influential families will be attending. Lord Ashbourne mentioned he would escort you."
Emily suppressed a grimace. Isabelle Fairfax, the darling heroine of the story, was undoubtedly the centerpiece of this event. If Evelyn were to salvage her reputation, this was her chance to start sowing seeds of goodwill among the nobility. But there was also the matter of Lord Ashbourne, her supposed fiancé, who seemed more like an adversary than an ally.
"Thank you, Mary," Evelyn said, a plan beginning to form in her mind. "Could you help me choose an appropriate dress? Something elegant but… understated. I want to make the right impression."
Mary's eyebrows rose slightly in surprise but she nodded quickly. "Of course, Evelyn. I'll bring your finest options."
Hours later, Evelyn found herself stepping out of a carriage in front of the sprawling Fairfax estate. It was everything she'd imagined when designing the game: towering white columns, immaculately kept gardens, and a grand fountain bubbling in the center of the circular drive. Guests in elaborate gowns and tailored suits milled about, their chatter and laughter filling the air.
Lord Frederick Ashbourne stood by her side, offering his arm. His smile was polished, but Evelyn didn't miss the calculating glint in his eyes.
"Try not to alienate anyone today," he murmured, just loud enough for her to hear. "We wouldn't want to tarnish your reputation further, would we?"
Evelyn smiled sweetly and linked her arm with his. "Thank you for your advice, my lord. I'll be sure to follow it as closely as you follow mine."
Frederick's smile faltered for a brief moment before he regained his composure. He didn't respond as they entered the estate together, the crowd parting slightly to let them through.
Inside, the ballroom was a vision of opulence. Crystal chandeliers cast warm light over polished floors and gilded walls. Isabelle Fairfax, the hostess and heroine, stood near the center of the room, surrounded by admirers. Her soft blue gown and golden curls made her look like a painting come to life.
Evelyn took a deep breath. This was her moment to start changing the narrative.
Evelyn's first priority was to establish herself as approachable. In the game, Evelyn Darrow had alienated herself by flaunting her status and delivering veiled insults to anyone she considered beneath her. Emily knew she had to do the opposite.
She approached a group of women standing near the refreshments table. One of them, Lady Margaret, had been a minor antagonist in the game—a gossip who thrived on drama.
"Lady Margaret," Evelyn said warmly, dipping into a small curtsy. "It's been far too long since we last spoke. How are your children?"
Lady Margaret blinked, clearly startled by the pleasant greeting. "Oh, they are quite well, Miss Darrow. Thank you for asking."
"Evelyn, please," she corrected with a soft smile. "I remember your youngest had quite the talent for painting. Has she continued?"
Lady Margaret's face lit up. "Indeed she has! Just last week, she completed a lovely landscape. I must show you sometime."
"I would love that," Evelyn said sincerely. "She sounds wonderfully talented."
By the end of the conversation, Lady Margaret was smiling and chattering with enthusiasm. Evelyn felt a small surge of relief. It was a minor victory, but an important one.
As Evelyn mingled, she kept an eye on Isabelle Fairfax. The heroine was surrounded by a rotating group of admirers, her laugh light and melodic. Evelyn waited for the perfect moment before approaching.
"Lady Fairfax," Evelyn said, her tone warm but reserved. "Thank you for hosting such a lovely gathering. Your estate is breathtaking."
Isabelle turned, surprise flickering across her face before she smiled politely. "Miss Darrow, thank you. I'm glad you could join us."
"Evelyn, please," she corrected, mirroring the smile. "I've heard so much about your work with the orphanage. It's truly admirable."
Isabelle's expression softened. "Thank you. It's a cause dear to my heart. Every child deserves a chance to thrive."
"I couldn't agree more," Evelyn said. "If there's ever an opportunity to assist, I would be honored."
Isabelle's polite smile shifted into something more genuine. "That would be wonderful. We're hosting a charity event next month—perhaps you might attend?"
"I would be delighted," Evelyn replied.
As the evening wore on, Evelyn found herself making small but meaningful strides. The game was changing, and she was no longer just a piece on the board. She was playing to win.