The afterparty had begun in earnest. The soft hum of conversation and laughter swelled into a rhythmic pulse as lights dimmed and music filled the room. A DJ had replaced the formal orchestra, spinning beats that made the polished chandeliers above sway in reflection. Guests moved freely now, some circling tables with flutes of champagne, others on the dance floor, bodies swaying to the rhythm of freedom and celebration.

I remained at the edge for a moment, letting the movement of the crowd ...