Ruby's fingers curled into her robe, her heart thudding hard. Her calm expression didn't waver, but inside, her thoughts spun like wildfire. She knew exactly what Madame Shades was doing — trying to cut off their time, to corner her before Adrian and Julian could return with the proof they needed.
Madame Shades smiled wider, clearly enjoying the discomfort spreading across Ruby's face and her husbands' tense reactions. "Yes, that settles it. Three days. I'll send priests, decorators, and invitations by tonight. And Ruby, dear…" Her voice dropped low, silky and sharp. "Do be ready. You won't have time to change your mind."
Ruby forced a polite nod, even as her stomach twisted. "Of course," she said softly, her tone calm enough to fool most of the guests but not Karl, who saw the storm in her eyes.
As Madame Shades and Louis left the hall, satisfaction written all over their faces, Ruby stood still for a moment, her fists clenched at her sides.
****
