As we walked back to the villa, the setting sun painted the sky in hues of pink and orange, casting a warm glow over everything. The aroma of a delicious meal greeted us as we entered the grand dining hall.
The room was adorned with elegant chandeliers and exquisite artwork, making it clear that Chloe's family valued both comfort and style. The long mahogany table was set with fine china and crystal glasses, and a sumptuous spread of food awaited us.
Chloe's parents, Margaret and Charles, guided us to our seats. I was placed between Chloe and Margaret, directly across from Charles, which gave me a perfect view of the whole table.
Dinner started with a delightful appetizer: a delicate salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette. As we began eating, the conversation flowed naturally.
"So, Elena," Margaret began, her eyes twinkling with curiosity, "Chloe tells us you're quite the rising star in the modeling world."