Chapter 142 - A Duchess Unmasked, A Future Forged

My heart pounded against my ribs as Queen Seraphina's private drawing room came into view. This smaller, more intimate gathering was specifically arranged for my first public appearance without my mask. Alaric's steady hand at the small of my back provided comfort, but couldn't completely silence the doubts whispering in my mind.

"Are you certain about this?" I asked him one final time, pausing just outside the door.

Alaric turned to face me, his eyes filled with such unwavering confidence that I felt my own spine straighten in response.

"The question is whether you are certain, Isabella." He lifted his hand to my exposed cheek, thumb gently tracing the edge of my scars. "This is your choice alone."

I took a deep breath. "I am certain. It's time."

The footman announced our arrival, and as we stepped into the room, the gentle hum of conversation faltered. I felt every eye turn toward us—toward me—and resisted the powerful urge to cover my face or turn away.