Ivan took Lydia's hands, helping her from the stairs.
She smiled softly at him. Her heart fluttered. The moment felt surreal—like she had stepped into a story she used to dream of as a child. The lights, the music, the crowd—none of it mattered. Right now, it was just him.
He smiled back and said to her, "You look beautiful."
She giggled quietly, her cheeks flushing a little. She felt like her chest had been filled with warm air. All eyes were on them. Everyone in the ballroom looked at them in awe, as if they were the sun and moon standing side by side.
The ball officially started.
Ivan and Lydia were the center of attention. As the hosts, they had to greet and welcome guests from all parts of the kingdom. Noblemen and noblewomen bowed, curtsied, and smiled politely. Some seemed nervous. Some seemed too curious.
