Three days had passed since Everly's chaotic debut at Shen Manor, and today marked her scheduled visit to Qin Manor. The anticipation had her up early, meticulously preparing despite Cassian's vague promise to "pick her up sometime today"—which could mean anything from 8 AM to midnight, knowing him.
Usually, breakfast found Everly in her signature "I just rolled out of bed and grabbed whatever" ensemble of oversized t-shirts or hoodies that made her look like she'd raided a college freshman's laundry pile. Her closet might be stuffed with designer pieces now, but comfort trumped couture when she was home.
Today? Denim jacket and jeans in the dining room like she was heading to a casual coffee date instead of visiting one of the country's most powerful families. The transformation was so jarring that Alan nearly choked on his coffee.
"Did someone die? Are you going to a job interview? Is this an intervention?" Alan whispered, eyeing her outfit like she'd shown up in a hazmat suit.
