Meanwhile, outside, the night air pulsed with rhythm and laughter.
The stage area was alive—sisters and maids filled the seats, their faces glowing beneath lantern light as the music swelled through the courtyard.
And every time someone stepped out onto the stage, the crowd erupted.
"Look at you! You're beautiful!"
"Stunning! That color's perfect on you!"
"You look like a queen!"
Each new model—maid or sister—walked down the platform with as much composure as they could manage.
Cassius had told them that real models walked with grace and poise, so they tried—heads high, steps steady, smiles restrained—but the moment the cheers hit, they couldn't help themselves.
Some covered their faces in embarrassment.
Others blew little bows or waves before scurrying back behind the curtain.
And of course, those enjoying themselves the most were the Sisters of the Church.
For the maids, life in Cassius's mansion was always full of surprises—chaotic perhaps, but never dull.
