Chapter 101: The Picture Of Poise
A gleaming blue Rolls-Royce stopped in front of an opulent restaurant, its grand façade illuminated by golden lights that shimmered against the sleek black marble walls. Tall, arched windows framed with intricate wrought ironwork revealed glimpses of chandeliers inside, their crystal droplets scattering light like diamonds. The entrance was marked by a red carpet leading to heavy oak double doors, polished to a mirror-like shine, with uniformed doormen standing at attention.
Inside the car, Eira reached up, swiftly pulling her hair into a low bun, allowing a few fringes to fall over her face. She inspected her reflection in the rearview mirror briefly, ensuring it didn’t look bad, and when she was sure of that, she moved to the car door.
The door clicked open, and Miles extended his hand to help her out. He nodded at her in silent acknowledgment, his expression impassive as always.
"Thank you," she said, stepping out gracefully, her heels clicking against the cobblestones as she made her way toward the entrance.
Once she got there, the doormen opened the door for her as the soft strains of classical music floated out to greet her. The air inside was warm, a stark contrast to the cool evening outside, and filled with the rich aroma of gourmet dishes being served in the restaurant’s lavish dining hall.
Eira paused for a moment just inside the doorway, her eyes taking in every detail. Guests dressed in their finest were seated at tables adorned with pristine white linens, golden candelabras, and fresh flower arrangements. Waiters moved with practiced precision, their trays laden with plates of artfully presented food.
Her gaze landed on her family. They were seated at a round table near the end of the room beside the window, the soft glow of a chandelier above them casting a golden hue over their faces. Eliot was at the head of the table, speaking to the waiter with his usual calmness. Marianna sat beside him, her expression serene but tinged with naughtiness and impatience. Myra, in contrast, was scrolling through her phone, her lips pursed as if she were bored out of her mind.
Eira’s entrance did not go unnoticed. Heads turned as she strode forward, her every step deliberate, her posture regal. The bodycon dress hugged her figure perfectly, and the asymmetrical hem swayed elegantly with each movement.
When she reached the table, Eliot was the first to notice her. He rose to his feet, his expression a mix of surprise and admiration. "Ephyra," he said, his voice warm but slightly hesitant. "You look beautiful."