"BLONDE LIKE HONEY"

The evening in London was serene, with a soft breeze gently blowing through the city's streets as the **Hotel Rits** shimmered under the glow of the street lights. Aurora stood in her office on the top floor, gazing out at the stunning view of the capital. The city's bustling noise seemed distant, as though she were in another world entirely. The **Hotel Rits** had always been more than just a business to her—it represented the foundation of her personal and professional life. Since her parents had entrusted her with carrying on the family legacy, Aurora had dedicated herself to the hotel. However, in recent months, there had been something else filling her heart—something that had changed her perspective on what it meant to build a life. 

She and Max had decided to take a big step in their relationship: they were engaged. Max's proposal, made on a quiet afternoon beside the lake at the Perutz family farm, had been simple but incredibly meaningful. He asked for her hand with tenderness and sincerity, and she, with a heart full of emotion, had accepted. It was not just a step in their relationship, but a commitment to their future together. And the place chosen to celebrate this milestone was **Hotel Rits**—the place that symbolised everything she had worked for and built over the years.

Max, always by her side, supported her every decision. He understood how much the hotel meant to her and had never pressured her to walk away from it. On the contrary, he had become an integral part of her world, and together they began to shape their future. For him, the **Rits** wasn't just the place where Aurora had achieved so much, but also where their shared story was unfolding.

The Preparations for the Engagement

Celebrating the engagement at **Hotel Rits** felt like the most natural choice for Aurora. The hotel, with its classic elegance and welcoming atmosphere, would be the perfect setting for the union of two families so different, yet so bound by love and mutual respect. The event would be intimate, with only close family and friends invited. Max's parents, Otto and Ingrid, would be travelling from Austria to join them for this special occasion, and as the hostess, Aurora wanted the evening to reflect both their origins and the memories they were creating together.

The preparations began weeks in advance, with each detail thoughtfully planned. The décor was designed to blend their cultures: the understated luxury of British tradition, reflected in the hotel's atmosphere, and the rustic charm of Austria, Max's homeland. The main hall was carefully arranged with tables draped in white linen, and a floral arrangement of white and green flowers adorned each table. Small crystal vases filled with delicate peonies and lilies, symbols of purity and new beginnings, decorated the room, while the makeshift altar for the ceremony was framed by a curtain of ivy and greenery. Silver candelabras stood at intervals, casting a soft, romantic glow over the room.

Max and Aurora had chosen a menu that was a fusion of British and Austrian flavours—two culinary traditions that reflected their roots. The dinner would be sophisticated, yet comfortable enough to please all guests.

The first course would feature a variety of canapés, including delicate blinis with caviar, mini mushroom quiches, and cold smoked salmon appetizers, all accompanied by chilled Champagne. For the main course, guests could choose between traditional roast beef served with mashed potatoes and seasonal vegetables or an authentic Austrian schnitzel, golden and crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside. The side dishes would include potato gratin and a classic Austrian coleslaw. The dessert would be the highlight—a rich Sachertorte, the famous Austrian chocolate cake, served with fresh whipped cream.

The Engagement Celebration at Rits

The day of the celebration arrived, and the atmosphere in the Hotel Rits was filled with excitement and anticipation. When Aurora descended the grand staircase into the ballroom, her white silk dress flowing elegantly behind her, she felt a mixture of nervousness and joy. The dress, with a delicate V-neck and intricate lace details on the sleeves, reflected her elegance and the simplicity she so valued. Her hair was styled in soft waves, adorned with small white flowers, and her face radiated happiness and excitement. Max, dressed in a perfectly tailored dark suit with a silver tie, stood at the centre of the hall, his eyes locked on her. A sincere smile lit up his face as he saw her. 

Max's parents, Otto and Ingrid, were delighted by the celebration. Ingrid, wearing a long burgundy velvet gown, looked radiant, her eyes filled with pride as she looked at her son. Otto, dressed in a classic suit, seemed unable to contain his joy, witnessing his son about to commit to the woman he admired so much. Aurora felt immense joy seeing her own friends and long-time colleagues from the **Hotel Rits** there to share this moment with her. There was a quiet, happy energy in the room, as both families, so different in origin, came together in a mutual celebration of love and family.

Max, with his heart racing, stood up to make a toast. The room fell silent as he began to speak, the sincerity in his voice moving all present.

"This evening is more than just an engagement celebration. It marks the beginning of a journey that the two of us are so eager to take together. Aurora, you are the most extraordinary woman I have ever met. From the moment I saw you, I knew you were the one. Every day we spend together makes me realise how much more we can accomplish. I am incredibly grateful to have you by my side."

Aurora, deeply moved, rose to her feet to join him. Her dress shimmered as she walked, and she smiled, her eyes shining with love.

"Max, you have transformed my life in ways I never imagined. From the first moment we met, something in me changed forever. You've shown me what it truly means to love, and to have a partner who is there for me through everything. I am so grateful for you being with me today, and I look forward to everything that awaits us. I am the happiest I've ever been, and I can't wait for the future we will build together."

The room erupted in applause, and Max took her hand, leading her to the centre of the hall, where they shared a tender moment. Guests raised their glasses, joining in the toast, and the air was thick with joy, warmth, and celebration.

As the dinner was served, the guests were treated to an exquisite feast. The canapés were delightful—delicate flavours of smoked salmon, caviar, and mushroom quiche that delighted everyone. The conversations flowed as people sampled the dishes and shared their excitement for the couple. The main courses were equally well-received. The roast beef was tender and perfectly cooked, accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes and a medley of seasonal vegetables. The schnitzel was crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and received rave reviews from the Austrian guests who felt at home with the familiar flavours. The potato gratin was rich and indulgent, and the tangy coleslaw added a refreshing contrast.

But it was the dessert that stole the show. The Sachertorte, with its rich, dark chocolate layer and smooth ganache, was met with satisfied murmurs from all guests. Every bite seemed to melt in the mouth, and Aurora's friends and family could not stop praising the cake. The evening was filled with laughter, conversation, and an undeniable sense of joy. It was clear to everyone present that this wasn't just a celebration of an engagement—it was the start of a new chapter in the lives of two wonderful people, and everyone in the room could feel the love that surrounded them.

As the evening continued, the toasts kept coming, and the mood grew lighter. Guests circulated around the room, chatting, laughing, and sharing stories. Aurora and Max moved from table to table, expressing their thanks to everyone for being there, for supporting them, and for sharing in their joy. The happiness was contagious, and the sense of unity was felt by all.

As the night drew to a close and the last guests left the ballroom, Max and Aurora made their way to the hotel's rooftop. There, under the vast starry sky, they shared a quiet moment alone, away from the festivities. The city's skyline sparkled in the distance, but for both of them, nothing seemed brighter than the future they were about to build together.

"This evening was perfect, Max. I can't imagine a better place to celebrate our love.

Hotel Rits has always been part of my story, and now, with you, it will be part of our story."

Max smiled and kissed her forehead gently. "I've always known your story was extraordinary, Aurora. And now, our story will be even more amazing."

Aurora rested her head on his shoulder, the city lights reflecting in her eyes. Together, they stood there in silence, knowing that the journey ahead, though unknown, would be one they would face together—with love, commitment, and the shared promise of a future built on the foundations of family and trust.