Chapter 46: Celebration
The sky was starting to darken, casting a gentle shadow over the world outside.
Inside the room, the three men of the Stronghart family were getting dressed for the celebration.
They had chosen formal suits—Arthur in a white-dominant outfit paired with a black shirt, Kevin in a soft beige coat and trousers with a crisp white shirt, and the head of the family in a classic black coat, white shirt, and a neatly tied tie.
Before the journey, they had done some shopping together, using both the treasure Arthur carried and the savings Aston had quietly built up over time. Because of that, they now stood in front of the mirror wearing new, finely made clothes—prepared for what would be the most important event they’d ever attended.
Kevin glanced at his reflection, adjusting the bowtie again. "Dad, does this really suit me?" he asked, uncertain, his voice low.
Aston gave him a reassuring look. "You look more than fine, son. Hold your head high." His words were firm, like a captain encouraging a soldier before battle, but laced with warmth only a father could give.
Just then, the lady of the Stronghart family stepped into the room, and all three turned toward her at once.
She wore a deep blue dress that shimmered like the night sky, wrapping gently around her form before cascading down like flowing water. With each step, the jewels at her neck caught the light, sparkling like stars. Her smile was soft, almost dreamlike, as if time itself had slowed for her entrance—and for a moment, it truly felt like it had.
Her hair fell freely over one shoulder, soft and flowing, giving her the quiet charm of a graceful, mature beauty. A gentle touch of makeup brought out her features even more, enhancing the warmth in her smile.
"How do I look?" she asked, her tone light but expectant.
Arthur, with a smug suddenly held up a "ten out of ten" board from who-knows-where. Kevin, wide-eyed and sincere, simply said, "Stunning."