Chapter 24: Elegance and Insolence.

Lie Blu Apartment.

Matilda’s POV.

The closing credits of my drama are barely rolling when my doorbell rings. I glance at the clock—just shy of ten. “Who could that be?” Curiosity piqued, I slide off the couch, smoothing my shirt, and open the door slightly, peering through the gap. A tall, slender man stands there, muttering under his breath as he adjusts his cuffs. I raise an eyebrow, unsure if he’s rehearsing some speech or having a quiet meltdown.

He turns abruptly, and I’m met with a scowl so severe it could curdle milk. His sharp black hair sticks up as if it’s taken an immediate dislike to his comb, and his large green eyes don't soften when they lock with mine. He’s tall, at least six-one, but somehow still manages to look down his nose at me, his thin moustache twitching with impatience.

"Ah... Monsieur Jules!" I force a smile, trying to sound pleasant as recognition dawns. Chairman Willow did mention he’d be coming for the fitting of my gown sometime this week.

Behind him, fou