Chapter 316

• Preparations for the engagement gala at Northwatch Estate were already underway. With the household staff stretched thin, Theodore had called in some younger family members to assist, bringing along a few trusted aides as well.
• In high society, it was customary not to hold the engagement celebration on the same day as the formal announcement. Usually, a private reception would be held the evening before, reserved for close relatives and key business associates. Then, the following three days would be dedicated to a series of public events and galas, inviting the wider community and industry leaders to share in the joy and festivities.
• However, since this was my second engagement, I was less concerned with tradition. I opted out of hiring one of the high-profile stylists or image consultants who typically handled these occasions. Instead, I arranged for a professional from Elegance Atelier to manage my look on the day of the event. Perhaps it was the absence of my closest mentors and allies that dulled my enthusiasm for the usual pre-engagement rituals.