The ivory dress, for her meeting with her uncle to discuss the cabinet.

Picking up the expensive white dress, she held it up against her body, feeling the weight of the thick fabric against her skin. It had been designed for fancy events, not for the sweltering heat of Montesoro, but she did not anticipate being outdoors much for her next meeting. She turned to Bianca, who hurried over and helped her put it on.

The dress was elegant, with a high collar that wraps around her neck, leaving her prominent collarbones exposed. The bodice was fitted, emphasizing her narrow waist, while the skirt fell straight from her hips, ending just above her ankles. A simple gold necklace, studded with diamonds, finished the look.

With a smile, Isabella turned to the mirror. She smoothed her hair, and adjusted the hem of her skirt. The dress was perfect. It was dignified and feminine, but not too showy. It would help her maintain the respect of her office without being too revealing or distracting.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs was located in a stately building right at the edge of downtown Valverde, surrounded by embassies of foreign countries. The building was built with white marble, as were most important buildings in Valverde, giving it a timeless and imperial appearance. It was the epitome of the modern architecture movement that had swept across Montesoro in the early days of her father's reign, a testament to the nation's newfound wealth and power.

As Isabella approached the front entrance, she saw a number of cars parked along the street. Some were sleek, luxury vehicles, while others were more utilitarian. No doubt diplomats and their aides that had come to discuss the implications of her father's **** .

Her uncle stood at the entrance alone, waiting for her. He fidgeted nervously, glancing down the main street as she approached. He might have been her brother, but he shared none of the steely composure and quiet strength of her mother, Emiko. His thin-framed glasses rested on a weak-looking nose, and his wispy hair was combed back in an attempt to hide the fact that he was balding.

"You look lovely," her uncle said, a hint of nervousness in his voice. "Very nice, indeed."

"Thank you," Isabella replied, giving him a quick hug.

He took her hand and hurried her into the building. They entered the lobby, and she immediately felt a shift in atmosphere. Gone were the harsh sounds of the outside world. Instead, there was a hushed quietness, punctuated by the occasional murmur of conversation or soft footfall. The lobby was warmly lit, giving the place a cozy and intimate feeling.

"Apologies for the rushed greetings, Bella. I'm afraid we are being followed and watched. By who exactly, I'm not sure. Perhaps even our own people," her uncle whispered, his tone conspiratorial. "There are spies everywhere, especially after the incident."

Isabella nodded solemnly, knowing full well the dangers they were facing.

"But we mustn't let them get the best of us," he continued. "We will be safe in my office, away from the others."

They ascended a grand staircase and entered the second floor, drawing up before an imposing mahogany door. Her uncle turned to her with a reassuring smile. "This will be a private meeting, just you and I. We can speak freely and honestly here."

Isabella felt a sense of relief, glad to have some privacy after the events of the last few days.

The room was spacious and luxurious, decorated with dark wood furnishings and sumptuous red velvet drapes. Her uncle's desk was large, its surface covered in neatly arranged piles of papers. A portrait of the former Presidente hung on the wall, a reminder of the power he once wielded. Two plush leather couches were arranged around a low coffee table, clearly designed to host important dignitaries.

They settled down together on one side of the couches, and her uncle poured her a glass of water. Isabella gratefully accepted, taking a small sip.

"How have you been doing, Bella?" he asked gently.

Isabella sighed. "I'm alive, I suppose. Though it hasn't been easy."

"I know. You have all been through a lot," her uncle agreed. "That's why I wanted to help however I can with the Cabinet."