The mansion buzzed with activity as preparations for the grand ball intensified. Maxwell Carter had made it clear that this was not just any gathering—it was a celebration of his successful business transaction with an influential family from Country V. Every corner of the estate was being transformed into a scene of elegance and grandeur, with staff bustling about to ensure every detail was perfect.
Rose, who had experienced countless extravagant events during her past life of wealth, observed the preparations with a calm familiarity. She had attended grand balls before—her mother's birthday banquet, her father's elaborate celebrations, and many more. Unlike most of the staff, who were in awe of the opulence, Rose took everything in stride. The glimmering chandeliers, the luxurious floral arrangements, the sound of musicians rehearsing in the ballroom—none of it felt new to her. However, this time, she was not a guest; she was part of the household staff.
Vivienne, whom Rose had affectionately nicknamed Vivi, was practically glowing with excitement. She twirled in the middle of her bedroom as she admired the dress her mother had chosen for her. "Rose, isn't this just stunning?" she gushed, holding the delicate fabric against her frame.
Rose smiled. "It's beautiful, Vivi. It suits you perfectly."
Vivienne grinned and plopped onto her bed. "I can't wait for the ball. I love how everyone dresses up, the music, the dancing… But you know what I'm most excited about?"
Rose raised a brow, knowing that Vivi always had something mischievous up her sleeve. "What?"
"The food," Vivienne admitted with a giggle. "The catering team is preparing the most exquisite dishes. I overheard Mother talking about it, and I swear, I'm going to try everything."
Rose laughed. "You might regret that when you're too full to dance."
As they chatted, a knock on the door interrupted them. Flourish Carter, ever poised and elegant, entered with her usual air of authority. "Rose, I assume you've found an appropriate dress for the evening?" she inquired, her sharp eyes assessing her.
Rose nodded. "Yes, ma'am. I have something suitable."
Flourish gave an approving nod. "Good. You'll be assisting Vivienne throughout the night. Make sure she behaves."
"Of course," Rose responded politely.
After Flourish left, Vivienne flopped back onto her pillows. "Ugh, she makes it sound like I'm a child."
Rose smirked. "Maybe if you didn't sneak extra desserts at every formal event, she wouldn't feel the need to remind me."
Vivienne gasped in mock offense. "You betray me, Rose."
They both burst into laughter, but their moment of ease was short-lived. Downstairs, the sound of Julian's voice caught Rose's attention. He was speaking with the butler, his tone low yet commanding. It still felt surreal that Julian was a Carter. The man who had once offered her a ride home in the rain, who had been an enigmatic figure in the club, was now under the same roof as her. And, as much as she tried to push it aside, she couldn't ignore the way his presence unsettled her.
Julian had been watching her since his return, though he never made it obvious. There was something calculating in his gaze whenever their paths crossed, as if he was still trying to piece together the mystery of why she was here. And Rose? She wasn't sure how to feel about him just yet.
The night of the ball was fast approaching, and while Rose focused on helping Vivienne prepare, she couldn't shake the feeling that this event would change things—that something significant was on the horizon.