The next morning, Rosalena dressed simply, slipping into a modest yet elegant gown before heading to the café.
Alex was already waiting for her when she arrived. Sitting by the window, his sharp purple eyes softened the moment he saw her.
She approached him, taking a seat. "So, why did you ask me to meet you?"
Alex smirked slightly. "I missed you."
Rosalena blinked, caught off guard. "You... miss me?"
"Yes, I do," he replied, his voice smooth yet sincere.
She felt her lips curve into a small smile before she quickly composed herself.
He then leaned forward. "Your debut is coming up, isn't it?"
"Yes, it is," she confirmed.
"Then, we'll meet again at the ball."
Their eyes met, and for a moment, an unspoken understanding passed between them.
After finishing their tea, Rosalena bid him farewell and returned to her mansion. She walked up to her room, lost in thought, when suddenly—
A small squirrel leaped in through the window, its tiny paws scurrying across the floor.
"Lady! Lady!" the squirrel squeaked frantically.
Rosalena turned to it, surprised. "Yes? What happened?"
The little creature huffed, catching its breath. "After you left, your sister came to your room and read your letter!"
Rosalena's expression darkened. "She did what?"
"Not only that, my lady," the squirrel continued. "She followed you afterward!"
A frown settled on Rosalena's face.
"Why would Airna spy on me?"
Her sister had never shown interest in her affairs before. And lately... something about her felt off.
In Airna's room, meanwhile, the young girl stood in front of her mirror, her fingers nervously biting at her nails.
"Why did Rosalena meet Alex? They barely know each other… yet he sent her a letter?"
Her thoughts swirled in turmoil.
"I took the Crown Prince from her because she loved him. But now... she doesn't even seem to care."
She clenched her fists, frustration flickering in her eyes.
A Suspicious Conversation at Lunch
At lunchtime, the family gathered around the grand dining table. Rosalena took her seat, deep in thought.
The Duke, their father, turned to her brother. "Christopher, how are the preparations for your debut?"
Christopher smiled. "Everything is going smoothly, Father. I've already sent invitations to all the noble families."
The Duke nodded in approval. "That's wonderful, my son."
Then, he turned his attention to Rosalena. "And what about you, dear? Have you chosen your dress for the ball?"
She shook her head. "Not yet, Father. I plan to invite my designer to the mansion soon so she can create one for me."
As the conversation continued, Rosalena's gaze flickered toward Airna, observing her carefully.
"She came into my room. She read my letter. She even followed me."
Something wasn't right.
Keeping her expression neutral, Rosalena finally spoke. "Airna, have you prepared yourself for the ball?"
Airna quickly looked up, her innocent smile perfectly placed. "Yes, sister."
Rosalena held her gaze for a moment before smiling. "That's great. If you need anything, come to me."
Airna nodded sweetly, but Rosalena wasn't fooled.
Her doubts only grew deeper.