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ii. Prologue
SHE STOOD BEFORE HER MIRROR, staring into it quietly as she pondered. Eulalia shook her head, chastising herself. What was she thinking? It wasn't a choice to simply give in to the marriage. With a sigh, she tilted her head, eyeing the dress one last time, when a knock at the door broke her reverie. It was the signal—it was finally time to leave.
She cleared her throat and checked her appearance once more before opening the door. After closing it behind her, she glanced down the empty hall and began her walk, hands clasped in front of her. She proceeded to the stairs, carefully descending in her heels, and made her way to the drawing room. As she entered, she saw her siblings and parents already assembled. The moment Eulalia stepped inside, every pair of eyes turned to her.
"Splendid," her father said first, his gaze sweeping over her with approval. "I knew it would be just right." He approached her, taking in the sight of his daughter in the dress. "You do your mother proud; the dress is truly lovely." His compliment was directed more at the dress than at her. Eulalia rolled her eyes unconsciously, then turned to her mother, who offered a warm, reassuring smile. The sight of her mother's smile brought a brief grin to her lips, but it quickly faded when her father spoke again.
"Grateful you've heeded my advice. Now, we must be off before we're late." He announced, gathering everyone together. They all clasped hands as their father drew his wand. With a quick incantation, he performed the Apparition spell, transporting them directly to their destination: the Malfoy Manor. As they arrived, the children stood before the grand manor, taking in its impressive facade, before releasing each other from their hold.
Their parents moved ahead, hand in hand, towards the entrance. "You look stunning," Mirelia whispered to Eulalia, drawing her attention.
"I'd have to agree," Valerian chimed in with his characteristic grin.
"Absolutely," Cassian added. Eulalia glanced at Nereida, who was grinning widely, captivated by the layers of her dress. Eulalia chuckled softly, then turned her gaze forward, seeing their parents nearing the door. She quickly followed, nudging the others along. They all came to a halt at the grand entrance, the children standing quietly while their parents rang the doorbell.
They waited in a brief, expectant silence before the door creaked open. The sound of lively music drifted out, and they were greeted by the sight of a striking woman with a cascade of black and blonde hair. "Cellia!" she called out warmly, her voice rich with a proper British accent and a broad smile.
