The ballroom glittered with noise, laughter spilling too loud, glasses clinking, fake smiles and flattery. Music floated through the air, sweet and heavy, as nobles gathered in clusters discussing the latest rumors.
Eveline stood beside the queen, her posture straight, her expression calm. She nodded politely at every guest who approached, playing her role perfectly.
When there was a brief moment of silence, Daphne leaned closer, her voice low and sharp.
"You don't need to stay glued to my side. Move around and observe. Learn our circle."
"I never wanted to be part of it in the first place," Eveline muttered under her breath.
The queen tilted her head, amused. "I didn't quite catch that." Eveline straightened immediately. "I will do as Her Majesty commands," she said, bowing deeply. Then she turned and stepped onto the ballroom floor, disappearing into the crowd.
The moment she moved away, her body tensed. Someone was watching her.
She scanned the room slowly. Noblemen openly stared, their gazes shameless and hungry, but it wasn't them. Then her eyes met his. Dark, cold, unfathomable.
Several days had passed since their last encounter, yet the memory lingered. She tried to look away, but before she could, a noblewoman approached him. Her hands trembled as she spoke, her voice clearly nervous.
Alaric didn't look at her at first. He looked at Eveline, and smirked.
Then, deliberately, he took the lady's hand and led her to the dance floor. Gasps rippled through the ballroom. The unapproachable crown prince was dancing.
Whispers followed quickly. Has he finally chosen a future queen?
Eveline watched as they moved together. The noblewoman smiled brightly, clinging to the moment. Alaric's face remained cold, but there was a faint softness in his eyes, enough to make something twist painfully in Eveline's chest.
She pressed a hand against her heart, annoyed with herself. Get a grip. "Care for another song, my lady?" Tristan's voice pulled her back.
She turned to see him standing beside her, handsome as ever, wearing that knowing smile. Eveline nodded absently, but her eyes drifted back to the dance floor.
"They look good together," Tristan remarked casually.
She said nothing. "Jealous?" he teased, smirking.
Eveline finally looked at him. "Focus on your task. Gather whatever information you can for Madam Rubin and leave me be."
Tristan chuckled softly. "You always look at me like I'm plotting something." "Perhaps because you always are," she replied coolly.
He laughed. "Can't you be a little courteous?" "Save your charm for someone who wants it. There are plenty," she said, her tone sharp. "And for the record, I am no lady, if you want someone to flatter you, I'm sure there are many ladies available"
The music ended, and guests slowly returned to their seats. Eveline went back to the queen's side. It was time for gifts.
A stir ran through the hall as the king finally appeared. He entered with his guards, and a woman leaning far too comfortably on his arm, her smile smug and bold. Murmurs spread like wildfire. He brought his mistress to the queen's birthday…
Ashford gently guided the woman away and took his seat beside Daphne. The queen glanced at the woman, then back at her husband, one brow lifting.
"What exactly do you mean by this?" Daphne asked quietly. "Can'tyou keep your whores in your chambers, they are an eyesore honestly."
Ashford's expression didn't change. Instead, he motioned to the guards. They brought forward a velvet box and opened it.
Inside lay a rare sapphire set, the stones shimmering brilliantly under the lights.
"For you, my queen."
Daphne's eyes flickered with surprise. "You never cease to amaze me."
"Of course," Ashford said smoothly, leaning in to kiss her cheek. "You are my beloved wife."
The crowd watched, confused by the strange warmth between a couple known for their cold distance.
The celebration resumed. Laughter filled the room once more.
In a quiet corner, Merlia leaned toward Amber. "Did you get it?"
Amber smiled calmly. "Relax. Everything is ready."
Merlia's lips curled with satisfaction. "That girl will finally get what she deserves for seducing Tristan."
Amber patted her shoulder gently. "After tonight, she won't be able to face anyone again."