The sound of muffled footsteps echoed through the quiet halls of the Xia family estate, a stark contrast to the feverish plans being made behind closed doors. In one of the grand sitting rooms, Xia Mia stood in front of a full-length mirror, her eyes fixed on her own reflection. She was an image of beauty and grace, her delicate features enhanced by the pale silk dress she had chosen specifically for the upcoming banquet. Her hands smoothed the fabric down as she imagined how she would look on the day, standing by Jiang Yukang's side.