The Previous Day. Hours Before Lydia Went Missing
The sun was setting. A soft golden light filled the room, pouring through the windows like a final kiss before nightfall. Lydia stood by her mirror in silence. Her maids had just finished dressing her. Her gown was beautiful, an elegant shade of royal blue that shimmered under the light. Her hair had been done up with care, her skin powdered, her lips gently colored. She looked every bit the picture of grace and nobility.
But as she stared at her reflection, all she could see was the fear in her own eyes.
Her hands trembled lightly by her sides. She blinked, trying to stop the tears that threatened to well up. This night… she knew. She could feel it in her bones. Ruslan would show up. She didn't know how or when, but he would. Her heart had been warning her for days. Her instincts screamed louder than any voice of reason. And tonight, she would no longer hide behind anyone.
