Chapter 105

Chapter 105 - An Encounter Drenched in Condescension

The moment I entered my room, my mother was already waiting, a garment bag draped over my bed. Her eyes flickered with determination as she unzipped it, revealing a sleek burgundy dress that probably cost more than my entire wardrobe.

"This will do nicely," she said, more to herself than to me.

I stood frozen in the doorway. The reality of the situation crashed over me again - I was meeting a man I was betrothed to without my knowledge or consent. A stranger who would supposedly own me someday.

"I'm not wearing that," I said, my voice steadier than I expected.

My mother's head snapped up. "Don't start this again, Seraphina."

"I mean it." I crossed my arms. "If you're going to parade me around like livestock at auction, I'll at least wear something of my choosing."

Her nostrils flared. "This dinner is important. The Valois pack—"