The soft chime of bells rang as Abrielle, her mother, and Aunt Ava stepped past the grand glass doors of The Gilded Rose Club. The moment they entered, they were greeted by the delicate aroma of jasmine and honey, mingling with the rich scent of freshly brewed tea.
The interior of the club was a testament to luxury. The floors were polished marble, gleaming under the warm glow of golden chandeliers. Plush velvet drapes in deep rose and cream cascaded from the tall windows, allowing just enough sunlight to bathe the room in a soft, golden hue. Ornate floral arrangements sat on every table, fresh lilies and peonies carefully placed in porcelain vases.
The restaurant was grand yet intimate, designed for noblewomen to indulge in whispers of gossip and carefully crafted alliances over trays of delicate pastries. The air buzzed with quiet laughter, the gentle clinking of porcelain teacups against saucers, and the faint rustle of silk as finely dressed ladies shifted in their seats.
