Chapter 6

I carefully selected outfits for my parents—elegant but not overly luxurious.

The outfits struck the perfect balance—respectful to our hosts without seeming overly flattering.

Many people who knew me from before made a point of coming over to offer a toast.

My parents, well-versed and confident, held their own in every conversation, navigating the small talk with ease.

There was a sense of goodwill and curiosity in each exchange.

After all, it was the first time anyone here had met them, and a little probing was just part of the evening's tradition.

The banquet was already underway when Bella finally arrived, dressed in an extravagantly luxurious gown that instantly drew all eyes.

The dress was layered and voluminous, so much so that wherever she walked, people had to clear a path for her.

I recognized it as the gown my mom had bought for one of my previous birthdays; it must have been something Bella dug out from storage.

Even after six months back in the family, she was still