Chapter 24 The Red Room Awaits

• Theo’s mother beamed at me, giving my hand a gentle pat. “Okay, Mija,” she said, her voice light and cheerful. “Enough with the heartfelt moments for now. I think it’s time for me to cut my cake. Come on, let’s head downstairs.”
• I nodded quickly, relieved to shift the attention away from me. “Of course,” I said, stepping to the side to let her lead the way. I slipped the envelope discreetly into the pocket of my dress as she turned toward the stairs.
• She glanced back at me with a warm smile. “I can’t wait to see everyone’s faces when they see how beautiful you look in the full set. You’re practically glowing.”