"Are we set?" Roman's deep voice filled the quiet room as he pushed the door open to the changing chamber.
Julie, who had been standing in front of the tall gilded mirror, turned slightly.
The golden gown she wore shimmered beneath the crystal lights, its surface scattered with tiny orange stones that caught and reflected the glow like drops of molten sunlight.
Her delicate hands smoothed over the fabric nervously, tracing the embroidered patterns as though she still couldn't believe she was the one wearing such beauty.
When she saw Roman's reflection approaching, her lips parted softly.
"Roman," she breathed, her voice carrying a mixture of relief and warmth.
He closed the distance between them with the steady confidence that belonged to him alone.
The faint sound of his polished shoes against the marble floor seemed to echo in her chest more than in the room.
Without hesitation, he slipped his arms around her waist, drawing her into his embrace.
