Extra-Changing Fate

Chapter 43== Lex ==

"If you refuse my help and walk home, my lady, Kian will surely try to block your way," Virgo said calmly.

I took a deep breath and faced her. "How would he even know I left the house and came here?" I asked, puzzled.

She gave a soft laugh, almost teasing.
"He has eyes everywhere, my lady—especially when it comes to you. If his spies couldn't find you in your home or anywhere in the kingdom, he'd guess you're in Moonlight. It's the only place he can't infiltrate."

A grin stretched across her face.

I sighed loudly. "Even if I wanted your help, I can't accept it. I know there are eyes on me—not just Kian's. After what happened during the hunt, the Emperor has had me under constant surveillance. If I'm seen entering Moonlight and not leaving through the front door, it'll raise suspicions. It's either confront Kian... or risk being exposed."

Virgo gave me a small, knowing smile.
"Then just say you want to talk to him," she said in a playful tone.

I rolled my eyes and continued gathering my things.
"Anyways, have a safe trip," she said, waving me off.

But just as I reached the door, I paused and turned back to her.
"You're not going to protect me? You're letting me leave on my own?"

"Yup," she replied without hesitation.

"Ehh?? But why?! What if something happens to me—"

"That won't happen. Like I said, you're not going home anytime soon... Kian's definitely going to kidnap you on the way," she said bluntly.

I sighed again.
"And you're just letting that happen?"

"Why not? He'd protect you with his life. I don't need to worry."

And with that, I started walking home.

⸻

The older I got, the more people seemed to watch me with suspicion.

The Prince's birthday was approaching fast, and rumors were flying. People whispered that Catherine might become queen. The Nesuans supported her, and many nobles were shifting to her side.

It was clear to anyone paying attention—she was after the throne.

Thankfully, my sister hadn't realized that yet...

Though she would be attending the birthday celebration, where the Prince and Catherine were expected to meet for the first time—and of course, sparks would fly.

Like every predictable story.
Tsk.

I might have avoided one trap—my sister—but far worse threats were beginning to close in.

Should I just run away?

Should I ask Virgo to buy me an island where I'd be the only person allowed in?

"Alyssa... why are you thinking so hard?"

Just as I stepped five meters away from the front door—speak of the devil.

Kian was there. Waiting.

I froze in place and turned to face him.

But as I looked at him, he didn't resemble the person I once knew. Not even a little.

"What do you want?" I asked coldly.

"Let's talk," he said seriously.

And in that moment, memories from my sister's birthday came rushing back.

⸻

"Brother, not now," I said, putting distance between myself and Kian. Or more like pushing him away.