The mansion was quiet but alive with anticipation on the eve of the wedding.
Claire stood on the private balcony off her suite, wrapped in a soft white silk robe, the cool night breeze brushing against her skin. The moon hung high and full, casting a silvery glow over the gardens below. Tomorrow she would walk down the aisle and marry Xander. The thought sent a flutter of nerves and pure joy through her.
A soft knock came from the connecting balcony door to Xander’s suite. They had agreed not to see each other fully tonight — a small nod to tradition — but neither could resist at least hearing the other’s voice.
Claire cracked the door open just enough to speak through the gap, keeping her body hidden.
“Xander?” she whispered, smiling.
His low, warm voice came through immediately. “He
