"So, are you in love with the Grand Duke now, Your Highness?"
Ashley pursed her lips as she tried to answer when Mae interrupted her. "Annie. Stop pressuring Her Highness."
Annie realized what she had done, "Oh! I apologize, Your Highness."
"No, it's alright," Ashley said. "It's not like you tried to harm me. And I know that my face already gave you the answer."
Annie lit up, "Really? So you are indeed in love with him?"
Ashley smiled sadly, "Yes, but I think I was too late to realize it."
Annie and Mae looked at each other as Ashley continued, "I must admit… I couldn't recognize my feelings as love at first. I thought I was just attracted to him because he has a handsome face and the fact that he saved me makes me think he was some kind of hero."
Mae nodded, "Indeed. One could just think that it is more about adoration or gratitude."
Annie interrupted, "Then how did you know that you are in love with him?"
