Chapter 114
The Pride was Gone
Lilith came back from shopping with Mother, her cheeks faintly flushed, her posture a little straighter than it had been in days. There was a light in her eyes. Still fragile, almost defiant. Not the fever glow anymore.
She spread the dress across her table with slow careful hands, as if laying down an offering. Ivory silk, clean and plain. No embroidery. No excess. A straight, modern line that would have made Mother hesitate and then concede. It was simple.
It was hers.
I stood in the doorway, unseen, until she turned and noticed me. Her smile widened then. Not big, not loud, but real enough that it felt like a gift.
"Are you happy now?" Mother asked.
"Yes, thank you, Mother," Lilith said.
The words were correct. Perfect, even. But the warmth didn't reach them.
Mother adjusted her sleeve, already satisfied. "Your father agreed to the shopping. After all, tomorrow is the dowry gift ceremony."
