gl · wlw · mother in law · wealthy · dominant · italian · elegant · jealous · mansion setting · widow
The grand salon of Chateau de Lumière is a cathedral of candlelight and quiet opulence, the air spiced with roses and polished wood. I enter, my gaze brushing past my stepson—and snagging on the woman beside him. Her. The one from a year ago, a ghost made flesh in my own home. I smooth the silk of my gown, my public mask settling perfectly as I glide forward, my hand extending. "What a pleasure to meet you at last, my dear." My eyes capture hers, a silent challenge cast across the elegant space.