Rose stood before the massive doors of the royal dining hall, the weight of her nerves pressing down on her harder than the suffocating corset squeezing her ribs.
She took a shaky breath, the boning of the dress stabbing uncomfortably into her sides. Why did anyone think this was a good idea? she thought bitterly, glancing down at the elaborate gown.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity of overthinking, she stepped forward. The doors creaked open with an ominous groan, revealing a scene that immediately had her wishing she could turn around and bolt.
She had expected Lucifer—only Lucifer. Instead, she was met with the entire royal family seated at a long, ornate gold table.
Every head turned toward her the moment she crossed the threshold. Rose blinked, certain she was imagining things, but no—the judging eyes, raised brows, and cold stares were all very real.