Elias POV Beautiful

Mara stepped out from behind the dressing room curtain, testing the first of several gowns. Each one caught the light differently, clinging to her in ways that made my chest tighten with an ache I refused to acknowledge.

I sat back in the chair, arms crossed.

“Not this one,” I said flatly.

She twirled once, the fabric brushing her legs. “Too much?”

“Yes.” I didn’t elaborate.

She tried another — pale ivory, simple lines and elegant. I stayed silent. My eyes did all the reacting, but she didn’t understand my silence yet.

“Still not right,” I murmured.

Then came a royal blue one. Subtle beading, flattering neckline....