"Goodness, Mr. Stark! What a delight to see you here as well!"
A short, plump woman clasped her hands against her chest, her thick string of pearls bouncing with the motion. Then, with an enthusiastic smile, she took William's hand in both of hers, giving it a firm shake.
Judging by the fine lines etched across her face, she was in her late sixties, and much like Mrs. Garrel, she seemed to embrace aging naturally. Her short gray hair and the complete absence of makeup were clear testaments to that.
Yet, despite the passing years, there was an undeniable elegance to her—one that suggested she had been quite the beauty in her youth.
"Is it just me, or are you growing younger by the year?" William teased smoothly, his voice laced with charm.
Mrs. Bastien flushed, laughing as she swatted his shoulder with playful familiarity. "Silver-tongued devil, as always!" She turned her keen gaze on Anna, curiosity flickering in her eyes. "And who is this lovely young lady?"
