The sun shone brightly as Alora moved around her chambers, helping the maids pack for the journey to the northern dukedom. The air buzzed with chatter and the sound of closing trunks when a sharp knock came at the door. Helena signaled the maid to open it.
Alora looked up from a trunk to the doorway where Marcus Lenoir stood, holding a large bouquet of vibrant wildflowers. Alora's lips curved into a soft smile at the sight of the colorful blooms.
Zeke, seated nearby, snorted audibly, "I could've brought you flowers," he muttered under his breath, earning a look from Helena.
However, Alora's smile fluttered when another figure emerged behind Marcus—Arihan. His sharp, unyielding gaze made the air heavier.
Helena quickly sensed the tension and clapped her hands. "Let's give Her Highness and Lord Marcus a moment," she announced and began guiding everyone out.
