The crowd's chatter grew louder as the horses were led to the starting gate. Serena found her seat again, the air filled with the faint scent of leather.
Viscount Blake leaned close, lowering his voice. "Nightfall has a good chance today, but the favorite is Silverwind. Watch for him."
As the trumpets sounded, the horses surged forward in a thunderous gallop, hooves pounding against the track like a steady drumbeat. Serena's eyes followed Nightfall's powerful strides, her heart quickening with the race's rhythm.
The crowd's excitement swelled, some shouting bets and others urging their favorites. Nightfall kept pace, pushing hard against the other racers.
In the final stretch, Nightfall surged ahead, neck and neck with Silverwind. The crowd held its breath.
With a final burst, Nightfall crossed the finish line just a whisker before Silverwind.
Cheers erupted, and Viscount Blake smiled at Serena. "A well-chosen bet, Your Grace."
Serena smiled. "Perhaps I should attend more often."
Dyanne returned with the betting winnings tucked neatly in a pouch, just as a well-dressed woman approached Serena with a warm smile.
"I hope I'm not disturbing you, Dowager Duchess," she said politely.
Serena looked up and offered a soft smile. "Not at all. If I'm not mistaken, you must be Countess Orlando?"
The woman's eyes lit up. "Yes, I am. I couldn't help but admire your dress—it's so simple yet elegant. May I ask, is it from your boutique?"
Serena gave a light nod. "It is."
Countess Orlando clasped her hands in delight. "I thought so! That explains the refined design. I've been hearing quite a bit about your store lately."
In truth, Serena had chosen to attend the horse race not only for the experience but also to subtly promote her boutique. With so many noblewomen in attendance, it was the perfect opportunity to showcase her fashion.
"Thank you," Serena replied graciously. "You should visit sometime. I'd be happy to show you our newest pieces."
"I was already planning to," the countess said cheerfully. "The Selwyn Duchy is such a lovely place. I'll be seeing you soon, Duchess."
Serena nodded as the countess took her leave.
The boutique, as usual, bustled with activity—customers browsing, staff moving swiftly to assist, and the soft murmur of conversation filling the air. Serena entered quietly and made her way to the second floor.
Just as she reached the manager's office, a young woman—likely a new staff member—stepped in front of her, eyes wide but polite. "Excuse me, my lady. Do you need something?"
Serena offered a gentle smile. "I'd like to speak with the manager."
The young woman hesitated, then said with a nervous tone, "I'm sorry, but the manager is currently busy. Perhaps you could leave a message…?"
"Tell him it's urgent," Serena replied calmly.
The young woman opened her mouth to respond but was cut off by hurried footstep. Robert came rushing toward them, slightly out of breath. "Your Grace! Welcome. Did you come to check on the store?"
Serena gave a light nod. The young woman's eyes widened in realization, her expression shifting from confusion to awe before she quietly excused herself and returned to her duties.
Robert chuckled. "She's new. She hasn't seen you before—must've been quite the surprise."
Serena waved her hand dismissively. "It's fine. She seems hardworking."
After reviewing the ledger with Robert and discussing a few updates, Serena made her way toward the main entrance.
Just as she reached the doorway, Countess Orlando stepped in, accompanied by a small group of elegantly dressed noblewomen. A few of them immediately recognized Serena and curtsied with respectful smiles, while others leaned in to whisper among themselves.
Countess Orlando bowed gracefully. "Good day, Dowager Duchess."
Serena returned the gesture with a warm smile. "Welcome, Countess. I was hoping you would visit. Please, take your time to look around. I'll make sure you receive a perfect discount."
The Countess hesitated for a moment before speaking gently, "If you don't mind, Your Grace… how about extending that discount to all the ladies with me today?"
Serena clasped her hands, her smile playful. "Very well, but on one condition—each of you must promise to visit again."
The noblewomen laughed in delight, nodding in agreement.
"We certainly will," one of them said with a grin. "With such elegant pieces and generous hospitality, how could we not?"
Serena stepped aside, allowing them to explore the boutique. As they walked in, the room filled with light conversation and admiring gasps, just as Serena had planned.