The Duchess in Disguise

06

Three Days Later — The Spring Noble Ball at the Castle

Rose-covered walls shimmered with candlelight and silver leaves. In the gardens of the Aldrich family’s ancient castle, nobles mingled beneath crystal chandeliers, their voices low, champagne flutes glinting. Strings played softly, and the scent of roses mingled with the promise of power, turning the night into a grand, glittering spectacle.

Vera entered the ball in a deep emerald velvet gown, her hair swept up, a golden family crest gleaming in her dark tresses.

The moment she appeared, every eye turned to her.

"Who is that young lady? Her aura is—unforgettable..."

"You don’t recognize her? That’s Vera, the Duke of Aldrich’s only daughter."

"My god, really? I thought she was just a notorious villainess from all the rumors, but... she’s even more stunning than they say."

"I heard she wasn’t much to look at. But in person—she’s like a queen from some elven legend."

At the center of it all, Derek Aldrich—the Fourth Prince—sat at the far end of the long table. He held his glass, expression as cold as the moon, the golden fire of candlelight reflected in his eyes.

Suddenly, he looked up. Across the crowd, his gaze locked with Vera’s—sharp, unyielding.

Who is this man, to look at me with such defiance?

But I am Vera Aldrich now—the mistress of this house. I will never be weak again. No matter who challenges me, I’ll meet them head-on.

Vera raised her chin, confidence radiating from her. She met Derek’s stare, a trace of mockery on her lips.

"And who are you, to stare at me so boldly? Even with your looks, you’re hardly worth my attention."

The room fell silent. A young man beside her nearly spilled his wine in shock.

"Pfft—"

Derek’s face darkened, his voice cold as winter steel, echoing down the table.

"Not impressed by me? Then tell me, Vera—who catches your eye tonight?"

Vera glanced around the guests. Her eyes fell on the Ninth Prince, Aiden Aldrich, dressed in white, smiling at her with gentle, unreadable warmth.

She smiled, lips curling, and pointed lightly to Aiden.

"Him. He’s the only one I’m interested in."

Aiden simply smiled back, the corners of his mouth curving with quiet, knowing amusement, a glint beneath the crystal lights.

A sudden ripple of tension swept through the ballroom. Guests exchanged wide-eyed glances, the subtle currents of power and ambition swirling between night and roses.