Blackwood Mansion - Monday Morning - 7:30 AM
Emily stood before the full-length mirror in her dressing room, adjusting the navy blazer over her white silk blouse. The outfit was perfect professional, elegant, appropriate.
But something felt missing.
She studied her reflection, and for a moment, she saw both versions of herself Emily Blackwood, the brilliant student, and Princess Emily of Norvale, who'd once dressed for state functions and military ceremonies.
The posture was wrong. Too casual. Too modern student, not enough... herself.
Emily straightened her spine, lifting her chin slightly. Shoulders back, not rigid but naturally proud. Weight balanced evenly.
Hands relaxed at her sides.
There.
The difference was subtle but unmistakable. She looked taller somehow, more commanding. The same outfit, but worn with an unconscious authority that came from years of royal training.
