Chapter 10 - The Tailored Suit
The morning of the Greenwich Heritage Charity Gala arrived with crisp autumn winds rustling the golden leaves across the sprawling lawns. Inside the master suite, Julian stood before a full-length dressing mirror, buttoning the cuffs of a custom-tailored charcoal Armani suit.
He looked at his reflection. The hollow, bruised eyes of the man who spent 1,087 nights staring at spreadsheets in the dark were gone. In their place stood a man tempered by sorrow, sharpened by trial, and anchored by love. He looked healthy, powerful, and entirely at peace.
A soft knock sounded at the door, followed by the click of the handle.
Lucy walked in, wearing a delicate pale blue velvet dress with a matching white ribbon tied neatly in her brown hair. She clutched her one-eared rabbit tightly, her eyes wide as she looked up at Julian.
"Wow," Lucy whispered, tilting her head. "You look like a prince in a fairy tale."
Julian smiled warmly, walking over and kneeling down so he was eye-level with her. "Thank you, little one. But every prince needs a royal advisor. Are you sure I look ready to face the kingdom tonight?"
Lucy nodded with absolute authority, reaching up to adjust his silk tie with her small hands. "You're ready. Just remember what the turtle said. Your house is strong. Nobody can knock it down."
Nora appeared in the doorway, wearing a stunning emerald silk dress that highlighted her quiet elegance. A soft blush touched her cheeks when she saw Julian looking at her.
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"You both look incredible," Nora said, smiling genuinely. "Are we sure about this, Julian? The gala is going to be packed with reporters and high-society socialites."
Julian stood up, offering his arms to both of them. "We are entirely sure. Tonight, we walk out into the light together."
