I hum softly, my gaze drifting back to the dresses.
Who knew Timofey thought that far ahead?
“Now this one.” Matteo lifts the first dress carefully, like it’s something sacred.
He holds it up against me, eyes narrowing in concentration. “Structured bodice, silk Mikado, very clean lines. This is power. This isdon’t underestimate me, or you’ll regret it.”
He circles me once, assessing. “It’s classic, but not soft. You walk into a room in this, and people won’t see a bride. They’ll see a queen taking her throne.”
Something in my chest tightens at that.
He sets it aside and reaches for the second one.
“This one…” he breathes, almost reverently, lifting it with a softer touch. “This is more playful. Less intimidating, more…seductive.”
He smooths the fabric, letting it fall in soft waves. “Look at this—delicate lace, a softer silhouette that moves when you walk. It saysI’m dangerous, but I’ll let you come close enough to find out.”
He glances at me with a knowing smile. “This one doesn’t command. It invites.”
I huff out a quiet laugh, shaking my head.
He grins, pleased, and moves on.
“The third….” He lifts it with a dramatic flourish. “Ah, this one is drama. Full skirt, intricate detailing, a train that demands attention.”
He steps back, admiring it. “This is legacy. This is history. You wear this, and you’re not just a bride—you’re a dynasty. Old power. Unshakable. Untouchable.”
My fingers brush lightly over the fabric before I even realize what I’m doing.
“And finally….” Matteo turns to the last dress, his expression shifting into something almost mischievous.
“This one is my favorite.”
He lifts it slowly, letting the light catch on it.
“Sleek. Fitted. Minimal…but devastating.” He looks at me, eyes sharp. “This is the kind of dress that doesn’t need to scream. It whispers—and everyone listens anyway.”
He tilts his head. “This is danger in its most refined form. Controlled. Elegant. Deadly.”
Silence settles for a moment as all four dresses lie before me, each one telling a different story.
I let out a breath I didn’t realize I was holding.
Then, unexpectedly, I laugh.
It’s soft at first, then fuller, surprising even me.
Matteo beams like he’s just accomplished something monumental.
And for the first time since everything fell apart, I feel just a little bit like myself again.
I like Matteo. I think he’ll be the burst of fresh air I need in the midst of my chaos.
I glance up at him. “You can call me Valeria.”
He grins. “You got it, Val.”
My eyes widen before another burst of laughter leaves me. “You’re insufferable.”
