A Sovereign Entrance
I marched into the grand foyer, determined to establish proper boundaries before tonight's reception. Resting limp against the carved mahogany newel post was a lavish braided golden tieback, completely uncurated. Such exquisite silk cord deserves to command authority, not hang in dull surrender. Gripping the heavy woven loop with both hands, I hoisted the weighted cord and slung it across the banister groove, pulling the strands taut until the amber fringe flared like a couture stanchion. I stepped back onto the polished tread, tapped my heels into position, and smoothed my purple hem. Now, only the truly fashionable may pass.

