The Duchess in Disguise

9

Vera lounged lazily on a velvet chaise in the castle gardens, sunlight filtering through the tangled rose vines to scatter dappled shadows over her. The air was laced with the soft scent of earth and flowers.

Last night, Derek had thrown the entire ball into chaos before it even properly began. All my careful plotting, wasted in a single storm—didn’t even catch a glimpse of Cassian. What a waste of a beautiful dress and all that scheming.

She tilted her head back, gazing up at the blue sky, absentmindedly twisting a loose lock of hair around her finger.

How in the world am I supposed to get close to Prince Cassian now? Facing him head-on is harder than reaching for the stars...

Just then, her maid Lia came running up, breathless and visibly excited.

"Miss, Princess Seraphina is here!"

Vera raised an eyebrow, lips curving into a smile touched with ambiguous meaning.

Seraphina Hawthorne. She always picks the best times. Just when I finally catch my breath, she appears—with a brand-new ‘opportunity.’

Castle Main Hall

Seraphina Hawthorne stood before Vera in a gown of pale gold tulle, her manner gentle, a gilded invitation clasped delicately in her hands.

"Your Grace, I’m so sorry. I was delayed leaving home yesterday and missed the ball. By the time I arrived, everyone had already gone..."

Her voice held a delicate blend of apology and careful probing.

Vera sat upright in a high-backed chair, long fingers drumming idly on the armrest, her tone composed and unreadable.

"I was indeed upset yesterday. I didn’t expect you would arrive so late."

Seraphina faltered, bowing her head in an even more submissive manner.

"That’s why I’ve come to make amends." She spoke with utmost care. "The day after tomorrow, I’ve arranged a luncheon in my garden, just for you, Your Grace. I hope you’ll honor me by attending?"

Vera’s brows arched slightly.

"In the Hawthorne gardens?"

Seraphina nodded eagerly.

"Yes, the luncheon is prepared especially for you."

A flicker of a smile crossed Vera’s lips, her eyes dark and knowing.

"Of course I’ll attend. How could I refuse such a thoughtful invitation from my dear sister?"

Relief flooded Seraphina’s face, joy lighting her features.

"Truly? Then I shall look forward to your arrival!"

Vera’s smile deepened, mysterious and unreadable.

"Don’t worry. I’ll be there—right on time."

A garden luncheon, is it? Perfect. Let’s see if you and your prince get your happy ending—or if your reputation ends up in ruins.