Beneath the Pearls

Maddox POV

“Close your eyes,” Mom said, voice light with excitement.

I sighed but smiled, obeying. I could hear the soft click of her heels against the floor, the whisper of her gown as she moved closer. Her perfume floated in the air, something floral and warm, something that’s always reminded me of her…

“Now... open.”

I blinked.

There she was. Mom. Dressed up like royalty and somehow still manag