V

The grand hall had been meticulously prepared to showcase the wealth and luxury of the Symes family. elvet curtains in a rich crimson hue cascaded from the high windows, framing the large panes that allowed the final rays of twilight to illuminate the majestic chandeliers hanging above the guests. Dark, intricately carved wooden furniture reflected the glow of the candles, while a group of musicians, dressed in elegant, understated attire, filled the air with music.

The ladies of high society flaunted their finest jewels, each attempting to outshine the others, while the unmarried young women sighed quietly. The future Duke of Symes had just become engaged, and for many of them, a great match had slipped through their fingers. The gentlemen, meanwhile, exchanged polite words, though their glances frequently strayed to the entrance, waiting for the appearance of the intriguing fiancée. The anticipation was palpable, and with each movement in the room, the tension grew.

Suddenly, the music stopped. A murmur rippled through the room as heads turned in unison toward the grand entrance. The current Duke and Duchess of Symes, an elderly couple, entered the hall. Dressed in formal attire, they smiled radiantly, greeting the guests with small waves. With ceremonious slowness, they walked into the hall, creating a path of respect as the guests bowed their heads in their honor.

Right behind them appeared Cassian and Grace. A general gasp spread through the guests as every eye turned toward her. Grace was stunning. A delicate tiara rested upon her blonde hair, the jewels catching the light of the candles, making her appear like a fairytale princess. Her gown, in a soft ivory with fine silver embroidery, cinched at the waist and flowing into a lace-covered skirt, accentuated her slender figure. Every detail, from the intricate lace to the softest silks, was a testament to the wealth and status that came with her presentation.

Whispers quickly erupted. Grace bore a striking resemblance to her mother, and many began to comment that time seemed to have barely touched her. Despite her recent widowhood, her youthful appearance and serene demeanor baffled everyone. She seemed much younger than the rumors had suggested, only adding to the mystery surrounding her.

Across the room, nearly hidden in the shadows, Marcus observed the scene. He had spent the entire event in the background, keeping to himself, but he couldn't take his eyes off the entrance where his friend's betrothed had just appeared. When he finally saw her, he immediately recognized the woman on Cassian's arm. He was so shocked that he nearly spit out the sip of champagne he had just taken.

Westlin's heart began to pound. It was the same young woman he had bumped into on the street, the same one who, with a fleeting glance and an intoxicating fragrance, had left him bewildered. A mix of surprise and anger surged through him. If only he had known then who she was, he would have avoided this entire charade. He cursed inwardly, imagining the scandal that would befall his friend's family if the truth about this woman came to light.

But something wasn't right. The Countess of Hesse he knew was supposed to be a woman over forty, with blonde hair and green eyes. The young woman accompanying Cassian, however, was much younger, and her eyes, far from green, were a deep, crystalline blue. What was happening? Who was lying? His friend's family or the Countess of Hesse herself? Increasingly confused, Marcus couldn't tear his gaze away from Grace.

As the young couple made their way through the hall, greeting guests, Westlin's eyes remained fixed solely on her. He was determined to uncover the truth. From his position, he studied her closely: her gestures, the way she smiled, when she seemed relaxed and when something disturbed her. There was a natural grace to her movements, a composure that only someone from high society could possess. Yet, despite her apparent elegance, there was something about her that deeply unsettled him.

The more he watched her, the more his obsession grew. He couldn't fathom how someone so young and beautiful could be the murderer he was searching for.

Without thinking too much about it, he decided to approach. With firm steps, he crossed the hall and made his way toward the couple. Cassian was the first to notice his presence, and with a broad smile, he extended his hand to his friend.

" Westlin! I thought you wouldn't come, " he exclaimed with genuine joy.

" I couldn't miss the most important moment of your life, " Marcus replied, shaking his hand, though his gaze never left Grace.

Cassian, noticing Marcus's attention, turned toward his fiancée.

" My dear, this is my good friend Marcus Baxter, the Marquess of Westlin. "

Marcus extended his hand toward Grace with a slight bow of his head.

" A pleasure to meet you, Miss… "

Before Grace could respond, Cassian interjected.

" She is Grace Collier, the widow of the Earl of Hesse. "

A moment of silence fell between the three. Marcus could hardly believe what he had just heard. Grace looked at him, trying to maintain her composure, though her unease was evident.

" Milord, the pleasure is mine. I hope our little collision the other day didn't cause you any trouble, " she said, offering a weak smile.

Cassian frowned, clearly confused.

" Collision? "

Westlin, keeping a serene expression, gently kissed Grace's hand and then turned his attention back to Hantersey.

" It was a minor mishap. I was distracted and didn't see her. In fact, I should be asking her if the impact caused her any discomfort, " he explained smoothly, as Grace visibly blushed.

" No, milord, don't worry. I'm perfectly fine, " she replied, gripping her fiancé's arm more tightly.

Before Cassian could continue the conversation, his mother appeared, interrupting the moment.

" Son, the Beneditt family wishes to meet Lady Grace, " the Duchess announced with a warm smile.

" Our apologies, Westlin, " Cassian said. " If you like, we can continue discussing that collision once we've greeted all the guests. "

" No need, there's little more to say on the matter, " Marcus replied courteously, though his mind remained focused on Grace.

As the couple moved away, Westlin continued to watch them, determined that he would uncover the truth before the wedding took place.

" I will find out who you are, Grace Collier, " he murmured to himself before turning on his heel and leaving the hall.