Eleanor Moreau stood in the living room, surveying the staff's preparations with growing anxiety. The dining table had been set with their finest china and crystal glasses, fresh flowers arranged meticulously in the centerpiece. Everything needed to be perfect for Lyra's first visit home with her husband.
"Is everything ready in the kitchen?" she asked the housekeeper, who nodded in confirmation.
"Yes, ma'am. The chef has prepared all of Miss Lyra's favorite dishes."
Eleanor smiled weakly. At least that was one thing going right. She'd spent the afternoon in a state of nervous anticipation, wondering what kind of man her stepdaughter had married. The little information Lyra had shared about him was minimal at best.
The sound of heels clicking against marble interrupted her thoughts. Orla sauntered into the room, her lips curled into a smirk.
"Mother, I've decided we should make this dinner more interesting," she announced. "I've invited Jasper to join us."
