~Sucre~
I lower my gaze to the red plum blossoms in the white porcelain vase on the table, my long fingers lightly tapping the tea lid twice.
Before long, Thane pushes open the door and enters, his refined face wearing a fabricated smile. "I didn't know your highness was visiting. My apologies for not welcoming you from afar."
"No need to drag unnecessary attention," I say, sitting casually in the armchair, my tone carrying a hint of dominance — as if I am the host rather than the guest.
Thane clears his throat and says, "The matters your highness entrusted to me have all been secretly carried out. Your highness can rest assured that even if the officials investigate, they won't find anything."
I look up. "There's one more thing I need your people to do."
"What is it?"
