Chapter 155

• MALIA’S POV
• The rich aromas of freshly prepared dishes filled the ballroom, mingling with the scent of the flowers and candles. The air was thick with anticipation, and I could hear murmurs of approval as the food was placed in front of each guest.
• The tables came alive as everyone began to settle in, their conversations punctuated by the clinking of silverware and glasses. Zach and I took our seats at the head of the table, our plates set in front of us. The first course was a delicate salad, the vibrant colours of fresh greens, ruby-red pomegranate seeds, and slivers of golden pear arranged like a work of art on the plate.