(Chapter 48)
Lorcan Frostborne walked calmly, in stark contrast to Clarisse Faeloria, who was doing her best to avoid the gazes of those around them. Though only they knew what had just transpired, embarrassment filled Clarisse's heart, making her want to disappear from everyone's sight. Fortunately, she was able to use magic to erase any traces of the previous incident. Otherwise, people would surely notice their closeness and possibly misunderstand.
Clarisse felt awkward thinking about what had happened. There was something she couldn't fully explain—an unshakable feeling of excitement and unease lingering within her.
"You looked different earlier," Lorcan remarked, his voice calm but full of meaning.
Clarisse chose not to respond. She simply lowered her gaze, trying to steady herself. "I need to step away for a moment," she said hesitantly before walking toward the restroom. Once inside, she took a deep breath, attempting to dispel the nervous energy surrounding her.
However, she couldn't deny that something within her had changed since being with Lorcan. Even though she wasn't entirely unsettled by it, the feeling was undeniably confusing.
Am I starting to be affected? she wondered.
Clarisse tried to distance herself, hoping to understand her emotions. She realized that the longer they spent together, the harder it became to keep her heart steady. Lorcan, with his composed yet compelling demeanor, was gradually influencing her, and Clarisse did not want to lose control of herself.
During dinner with her family, Clarisse focused on the food before her. However, Eleanor Faeloria, her mother, spoke words that made her freeze.
"We've prepared something special for you tonight," Eleanor said with a knowing smile.
Clarisse tensed. Her mother, who was usually strict and composed, now carried a mysterious tone in her voice. Meanwhile, Lorcan merely gave a faint smile, as if he already knew something Clarisse did not.
After dinner, Eleanor led Clarisse to her room and presented a beautiful evening gown. Clarisse felt awkward, but since it was her mother's request, she had no choice but to wear it.
As she entered the candlelit room, a soft and soothing fragrance filled the air. The black gown she wore made her look elegant yet different from her usual self. Soon after, Lorcan stepped into the room. His gaze immediately landed on Clarisse, who was seated at the edge of the bed.
Clarisse could feel the intensity in Lorcan's stare. His expression remained calm, but his eyes revealed far more than he intended.
I need to take control of this situation, Clarisse thought.
Despite her nervousness, she gathered her courage. She knew that if she didn't take the initiative, Lorcan would dominate the moment as always. With a firmer voice than usual, she started the conversation, trying to shift the focus.
Lorcan raised an eyebrow slightly at her boldness but did not oppose the change. Instead, he seemed to enjoy this newfound side of Clarisse.
That night, Clarisse used her wit to maintain balance. She realized that their relationship was about mutual understanding, and for the first time, she felt capable of standing on equal footing with Lorcan.
As the night drew to a close, Clarisse came to understand that taking the initiative and showing courage was not a weakness. On the contrary, it was her way of keeping their relationship harmonious.
Watching Lorcan, who now appeared more relaxed, Clarisse thought to herself, I can handle this. She felt confident.