Chapter 81

Victoria POV

The day of my welcome party had arrived, and here I was, being dressed like a doll. Layers of satin and lace, brushstrokes of powder and rouge—every detail was being fussed over.

A knock on the door interrupted the flurry. One of the maids hurried to answer it.

"A delivery for Mrs. Volkov," a man said curtly, handing her a package. She nodded, bringing it to me.

"Open it," I instructed, barely glancing at the box. She obeyed, carefully peeling away the wrapping until its contents were revealed.

There it was—the most exquisite crystal gown I'd ever seen. The fabric sparkled as if it held shards of starlight, an impossible blend of elegance and temptation. It was the kind of dress that stole your breath and left your heart racing.

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