Chapter 15: Shadows Of Deception
Guests began approaching Mr. and Mrs. Winslow, offering their congratulations with warm smiles and firm handshakes.
They were greeted by faces they had never seen before—highly influential individuals who seemed to have appeared out of nowhere, eager to commend them. The ballroom buzzed with a mixture of curiosity, admiration, and barely concealed envy. The air was thick with intrigue, as if the engagement announcement had cast a spell over the crowd.
One particularly notable gentleman stepped forward, extending a handshake. His broad smile was polished, a product of years spent mastering social niceties. His tailored suit exuded wealth, and his every movement seemed designed to command attention.
"Congratulations on your daughter's engagement," he began warmly, his deep voice resonating with authority. "I had no idea Mr. Zethan would be tying the knot. This is quite the surprise. I dare say this news could break the internet."
Mrs. Winslow met his gaze, her smile poised and gracious. "We anticipated that it would," she replied smoothly, her tone a study in confidence. "This has been in the works for some time." Yet, despite her polished delivery, there was a slight stiffness in her posture—a telltale sign of the effort it took to maintain her composure.
The man chuckled, nodding in admiration. "I'm genuinely happy for your family. Please, do extend my best wishes to your daughter. I trust I'll be invited to the engagement party."
"Of course," Mrs. Winslow assured him, her laughter light and deliberate, her words carefully chosen. She had long since perfected the art of charm, every syllable calculated for maximum effect.
His grin widened knowingly. "You had me fooled with your theatrics earlier. It was well-played."
The small group surrounding them laughed politely, though Mrs. Winslow's smile faltered ever so slightly. The man leaned in closer, lowering his voice to a conspiratorial whisper.
"Where is she? I would love to meet her."
Beads of sweat formed at Mrs. Winslow's temples, though she quickly dabbed them away with a lace handkerchief. How could she explain that Lilia had been in the bathroom for nearly twenty minutes? More guests were approaching, eager for a word or a handshake. Leaving to search for her daughter would draw attention she could not afford.