Create an Edward Gorey-inspired illustration featuring a woman wearing a sleek, black leather dress with lace accents and a delicate choker. Her hair is braided neatly, with subtle cat-ear accessories adding a playful but mysterious touch. Use intricate cross-hatching to capture the smooth shine of the leather, the delicate texture of the lace, and the soft braids in her hair. The background should be minimal, hinting at gothic arches and stained glass windows, with much of the space left intentionally blank to evoke tension and isolation. Symbolic motifs, such as cat-like elements or a flickering candle, subtly hint at themes of curiosity, mischief, and introspection. The scene should blend elegance with an air of unease, balancing refinement with surrealism in a way that aligns with Gorey’s enigmatic storytelling style.