Chapter 80

The Day of the Banquet.

Nina’s POV

The days flew by so fast I barely noticed the banquet looming closer. And now, here I was, seated in front of a large gilded mirror in my room, letting a team of skilled makeup artists work their magic on me. My reflection was a work in progress: my skin already glowing from the serums and lotions I’d carefully applied moments before. The artists flitted around me like butterflies, adding color and life to my face, brushing through my hair, and perfecting every detail.

The excitement in the air was almost tangible, but beneath the surface, a current of nerves churned in my stomach. I wasn’t sure if it was from anticipation or dread. The banquet wasn’t just a celebration—it was an exhibition, a grand spectacle where the powerful flaunted their wealth and connections. And I was the host.

I barely noticed the door creak open until Louisa, one of our maids, stepped in with a nervous smile and my laptop carefully balanced