Chapter 29. Beneath the Red Dress

Anastasia's POV

My body is paralyzed in place for a few moments when I notice the presence of the young woman in the red dress. I feel my veins almost freeze, and a chilling shiver runs down my spine, raising all the hairs on my body at the mere sight of that figure. The other participants pass by, chatting immersed in their own worlds, unconcerned that I've paused for a moment. I stare at the young woman intently, both fascinated and disturbed by her presence, as she adjusts the cushions on the garden benches in a routine and quick manner, as if it were part of a daily, insignificant ritual.

The young woman has sleek black hair, so shiny it reflects the sunlight filtering through the tree leaves. Her eyes are narrow and small, but incredibly expressive, revealing a depth that makes me question what lies behind that gaze. Her skin has a yellowish-beige tone that stands out well against the red dress she is wearing.

The dress is simple, not as elaborate as