VIOLET
350 Words
"Knock, knock, knock."
A loud knocking echoed through the duke's study.
"Come in."
The duke's deep baritone voice sounded from inside.
The door opened, and Lilac stepped in.
She was still dressed in her trousers, paired with a striking black blazer. Her veil swayed slightly with every step, adding to the mysterious air surrounding her.
"Lilac, why aren't you dressed yet?" the duke asked, confusion written across his face. "The guests have already started arriving."
"It's been stolen," Lilac replied emotionlessly.
"What?"
"My dress."
The duke stared at her.
"What do you mean your dress has been stolen? The Emperor and his sons will be attending. Everything must be perfect."
He stood abruptly and began pacing around the room, anxiety evident in his movements.
Lilac watched him quietly.
Her deep purple eyes remained calm, almost indifferent.
Her father was not worried about his daughter's reputation or how she would feel. His only concern was how this would affect his image before the Emperor.
How selfish, Lilac thought.
"Dear father, do not panic."
Her soft voice reached his ears, soothing his troubled thoughts like a calming balm.
"The situation can still be salvaged."
She stepped forward, her expression composed and unreadable.
The duke turned to face her.
His sharp gaze softened slightly as he listened.
"I heard you pardoned the duchess."
Lilac calmly poured herself a cup of tea.
The duke hummed in response, lowering his gaze guiltily.
"But I had no choice," he quickly explained.
"Your second sister, Alara, fell ill after spending the night outside my study, and the duchess... she attempted to take her own life. I believe she has truly repented."
His words came out rushed, almost as if he was desperately trying to justify his decision.
"Okay."
Lilac's simple response filled the room with an uncomfortable silence.
The duke cleared his throat.
"About the dress situation... you said it could still be salvaged. What do you have in mind? It is already too late to summon any tailors."
He scratched his head awkwardly.
Lilac looked up at him.
"I need the key to Lady Violet's storage."
- Writer
