The following day, Eveloria rapped her knuckles gently against the door of Lucian's study. From within, his voice beckoned, "Enter."
She eased the door open and stepped inside, her gaze taking in both Lucian, and her uncle, Mikhail, engaged in what seemed like a heated discussion. It was evident that the topic was of great significance.
"Good morning, My Lord . Good morning, Uncle Mikhail," she greeted, offering a respectful nod to both men. She could sense the weightiness of the situation hanging in the air.
Mikhail returned her greeting with a warm smile. "Good morning, Eveloria."
Lucian's tone was more direct as he inquired, "And what brings you here ?"
Eveloria squared her shoulders, meeting her father's stern gaze head-on. "My Lord, there's a matter of great importance that I wish to discuss with you."
Lucian's brows furrowed slightly as he studied her. She took a step closer, gathering her resolve. "I have a request, my Lord. I wish to expedite my marriage to Gavriel. However, before the wedding, I would like to take the opportunity to get to know him better. I believe that by living together, we can truly understand each other and build a stronger foundation for our marriage."
Mikhail's eyebrows shot up in surprise, his eyes darting between father and daughter. He mumbled under his breath, "What is she talking about?"
Lucian regarded her thoughtfully for a few moments, his expression unreadable. "Eveloria, is this your genuine wish?"
She held his gaze without flinching as her eyes glittered. "Yes, my Lord. I believe this would be the best way for Gavriel and I to ensure a harmonious future together."
"Then, I will not stand in your way. Do as you please," he declared, his voice carrying a stern tone, though a faint glint of amusement danced at the corner of his lips.
Eveloria's inner thoughts buzzed with disdain. 'How predictable. No ordinary father would willingly send his daughter to live with her fiancé, but of course, he's anything but ordinary. Is he even truly my father?'
"Thank you, my Lord," she replied with a polite nod before turning toward the door. Just as she was about to exit, Mikhail's urgent voice interjected, "My Lord, you can't allow her to go to Gavriel's residence! It's not safe!"
His words dripped with a mix of fear and anxiety, and Eveloria's wide eyes darted back to Mikhail. She glanced between him and her father, hoping for some sign of resolution. However, Lucian's gaze remained fixed on her, his eyes narrowed in contemplation.
"It's her choice," he retorted evenly, his tone unyielding. "After all, you've been encouraging me to give her more autonomy, haven't you?"
Mikhail stumbled over his response, struggling to find the right words. "I... I didn't mean... this isn't..."
Lucian's patience wore thin as he issued a warning. "Be quiet, Mikhail."
"You may leave whenever you are ready," Lucian concluded as he referred to Eveloria, his gaze returning to his work as if the matter had been settled.
"I'm ready. I want to leave today," Eveloria declared with unwavering resolve.
Both Lucian and Mikhail were taken aback by her swift decision.
"You seem to have been expecting this response," Lucian observed, his voice carrying a hint of surprise.
Eveloria managed a bittersweet smile. "Yes, and you certainly didn't let me down."
As she turned to leave, a firm voice cut through the air. "Eveloria, you really shouldn't be doing this," Mikhail interjected.
Without speaking further, Eveloria exited the room.
***
In her chamber, Eveloria found Marlene next to her prepared luggage.
"You've already finished packing?" Eveloria inquired, surprise coloring her voice.
"Yes, my lady," Marlene replied.
Embracing her maid, Eveloria held her close, feeling the weight of the impending departure. Tears streamed down Marlene's cheeks as she clung to her.
"Please take care of yourself, my lady," Marlene whispered, her voice choked with emotion.
"You take care too, Marlene. I'm sorry I can't bring you along."
'Normally, a maid would accompany her mistress wherever she goes, but I've chosen not to take any maids with me,' Eveloria reflected inwardly.
Eveloria wasted no time. She gently pulled away from Marlene's embrace and secured her grip on the luggage, her voice soft yet heartfelt. "Thank you for everything, Marlene." With those words, she turned away, closing the door quietly behind her.
Marlene stood still for a few moments, her gaze lingering on the closed door. Her heart ached at the sight of her beloved mistress leaving her life forever.
***
Eveloria descended the grand staircase and made her way directly to the parlor.
Ambrose, Briana, and Beatrice were gathered there, their gazes fixed on her as she entered. 'They already know about my departure. I'm sure they must be pleased,' Eveloria surmised.
Briana wore a feigned expression of sadness, her eyes holding insincere sympathy. Beatrice, on the other hand, sported a self-satisfied smirk, a silent proclamation of her satisfaction. As for Ambrose, his countenance was a mixture of emotions, his thoughts veiled behind an inscrutable façade. 'She's truly leaving. This situation feels wrong. Why did Father agree to this?' he pondered, his fists involuntarily clenching at his sides.
Ambrose seemed poised to speak, but before he could utter a word, Briana seized the opportunity. "Sister Eve, you can't leave. I will be all alone..."
Eveloria's expression remained unmoved. "You can stop the act now," she cut in, her gaze icy and piercing.
Briana's eyes widened, caught off guard. Eveloria stepped closer, her voice a chilling whisper. "Did you truly believe I was foolish enough to fall for your lies? Your underestimation of me has played in my favor."
Leaning in even closer, Eveloria's words continued to pierce through. "I entertained the idea of being sisters with you, Briana. But your orchestrated attempt with the flower crown, an incident that nearly cost me my life, made it evident that the bond between us changed irreversibly that day. Furthermore, I've realized that you not only resemble your mother in every way, but you've also managed to surpass her in the worst aspects."
Eveloria's final statement hung in the air as she turned away, leaving a stunned and confused Beatrice behind, the weight of her words sinking in. 'Worse than mother?' Briana seethed internally. 'How dare she!'
***
Eveloria stepped out of the manor, her eyelids dropping as she savored a deep breath of the invigorating morning air. The sun's rays warmed her face, and she relished the sensation as she closed her eyes momentarily.
Approaching the awaiting carriage, Eveloria watched as the coachman efficiently loaded her luggage inside. Climbing into the carriage, she settled into her seat with a quiet sigh. The door shut with a gentle click, signaling the start of her journey.
As the carriage rumbled along the path, Eveloria stared out of the window, her thoughts wandering far away from the passing scenery. The hours melted away, her contemplative state undisturbed by the steady rhythm of the carriage.
'It's been quite some time since I left the Manor,' she mused to herself, a hint of nostalgia creeping into her thoughts.
Eventually, the carriage slowed to a stop. Eveloria glanced up, realizing that they had reached Gavriel's grand manor. Stepping out, she stood still for a moment, her eyes drinking in the elegance of the estate's surroundings. She turned to make her way inside when a sudden movement at the gate caught her attention.
Walked towards her with urgency in his steps, Sir Kord approached the gates.
Sir Kord bowed respectfully, his voice carrying a note of deference as he spoke, "Welcome, Lady Eveloria. Lord Gavriel has requested me to escort you inside."
Eveloria nodded in acknowledgment, offering a soft smile in response. "Thank you, Sir Kord. Would you mind retrieving my luggage from the carriage?" Her request was made with gentle politeness.
The knight's surprise was evident as his eyes widened. "Of course, my lady. I shall take care of that for you," he answered, clearly impressed by her self-sufficiency.
"Please, there's no need to unpack it. I'd prefer to handle that myself," Eveloria added, her tone gentle but firm.
With a nod, Sir Kord moved towards the carriage to retrieve her luggage. As they walked side by side towards the manor, Eveloria's eyes took in the opulent surroundings, reflecting her thoughts.
Reaching the grand entrance, Sir Kord opened the door, allowing Eveloria to step inside. The lavish hallway was adorned with exquisite paintings and tapestries, a testament to the estate's grandeur. As they proceeded, they entered a massive parlor where servants and maids stood in respectful formation, ready to extend their greetings.
With synchronized grace, the staff bowed and spoke in unison, "Welcome, Lady Eveloria. We are at your service."
Eveloria couldn't help but think, 'Gavriel wastes no time.'
As Sir Kord left to take her luggage upstairs, Eveloria's gaze drifted to the sight of Gavriel descending the grand staircase. His smile, though present, seemed to lack a certain sincerity.
"Welcome, Lady Eveloria," Gavriel greeted her, his voice warm but guarded, as he closed the distance between them.
She met his gaze and replied with grace, "I appreciate your hospitality, Lord Gavriel." As he reached her, she inclined her head in a respectful bow.
When she straightened, Gavriel's gesture caught her off guard. He gently took her right hand and pressed a reverent kiss to it. "I am truly delighted to have you here, my lady," he said, his words accompanied by the sincerity in his eyes.
Though outwardly composed, Eveloria's thoughts were conflicted: 'Despite my hatred for this man, this is a role I must play.'
Returning his gaze with a composed expression, she replied, "The sentiment is mutual, Lord Gavriel." Her smile was subtle but polite, masking the turmoil beneath.
As Gavriel continued to hold her gaze with intensity, she felt the unease settling in. His decisive snap of fingers broke the moment, drawing her attention to a maid who approached.
"With pleasure, my lord," the maid responded and then turned to Eveloria, offering a curtsy. "Please allow me to guide you to your room, Lady Eveloria."
Eveloria nodded her consent, her gaze briefly meeting Gavriel's once more before she turned to follow the maid, leaving behind an air of intrigue and unspoken tension.
Guided by the maid, Eveloria ascended the staircase and entered the first room on the right. As she stepped inside, her gaze was immediately drawn to the expansive bed that dominated the space, flanked by a wardrobe on the opposite side. The room itself boasted impressive dimensions, its decor a harmonious blend of blue, white, and grey hues accented by touches of black and gold, imparting an air of elegance. Yellow-painted walls added warmth, while wooden furniture adorned with golden accents complemented the theme.
The maid led Eveloria upstairs and showed her to the first room on the right. When they both stepped inside, Eveloria's eyes landed on the large bed, which occupied most of the space and the wardrobe at the other side.
The room itself was very big, it
was decorated in blue, white and grey colors with black and gold accents, making it look elegant. The walls were painted yellow, giving it a warm feel, and the bed sheets, the carpet, the dresser, and even the furniture were all made of wood with some golden accents.
" This is your room my lady . if you need anything just call me . I'm your assigned maid Olivia. " Olivia said with a small smile.
Eveloria smiled and replied, " It's nice to meet you Miss Olivia, I'll remember you. " she replied smiling while placing her luggage next to her bed and turning towards the wardrobe.
" I'll go prepare some tea and food for you, " Olivia replied
Before Olivia walked out of the room but stopped on the threshold and glanced at her one last time.
After Olivia closed the door, Eveloria set her luggage aside and collapsed onto the bed, tired of everything. She layed flat on her stomach and closed her eyes.
' I won't completely unpack my luggage because I won't be staying here for long . '
" This is your room, my lady. I'm your assigned maid Olivia." The maid said with a small smile.
Eveloria turned her attention to Olivia, "Thank you, Olivia. I appreciate your assistance. I'll keep that in mind," Eveloria said, a warm smile gracing her lips.
' It's bigger than my old room. ' Eveloria thought.
Olivia spoke again, "If you require anything, please don't hesitate to call for me." With a gentle smile, Olivia turned to leave but hesitated at the door, glancing back at Eveloria before stepping out and closing the door behind her.
Left alone, Eveloria let out a sigh and moved to sit on the bed. After a moment, she laid herself flat on her stomach, closing her eyes in exhaustion. Her mind drifted, and amidst the weariness, determination stirred: ' I won't be here for long, so there's no need to unpack.'