Treading Thin Ice.

As Evelina followed Leone through the grand hall leading to the dining room, her steps slowed as her nerves began to take hold.

She could hear faint murmurs and the clinking of silverware from behind the heavy wooden doors ahead. This was it—the first time she would truly face the family together. She adjusted her dress subtly and took a deep breath, steadying herself.

Leone pushed open the double doors with a firm hand, and Evelina stepped in behind him.

The room was as grand as Evelina had expected, with high ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and a long table draped with pristine white cloth.

At the head of the table sat Ambrose, his kind yet sharp eyes immediately locking onto her.

To his left sat Camille, her icy demeanor did not go unnoticed by Evelina. Leonora, on the other hand, sat at the far end, leaning back in her chair with a playful smirk as her eyes lit up at their arrival.

"Ah, here they are," Ambrose said, his voice deep yet warm.