Transcending Fate (Transmigrated to an Otome Game)

Invitations and Revelations

##Read the previous chapter first as I have Updated it

A few days passed in a blur for Alaric. He spent his time with friends, particularly the fashion designer who always had the latest gossip and trends. It was a refreshing change, allowing Alaric to immerse himself in the familiar comforts of his old life. However, one morning, a letter arrived that disrupted the peace he had found.

It was an invitation to a party hosted by Julian. The event was scheduled for a few days later. Despite his doubts and the unsettling feelings Julian always evoked, Alaric decided to attend.

He couldn't quite shake the sense that something wasn't right, but curiosity and a sense of obligation drove him to accept.

The next day, seeking to clear his mind, Alaric decided to meet his childhood friend Luke at a well-known café in the capital.

The familiar surroundings and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee helped to ease his anxiety.

They exchanged greetings and settled into light-hearted chatter about the latest happenings in the capital, including some amusing anecdotes about the nobles.

“Have you heard about Lady Vivian’s latest escapade?” Luke asked, a mischievous glint in his eye.

“Oh, do tell,” Alaric replied, leaning in with interest.

“Well, she apparently tried to sneak into the royal gardens disguised as a gardener. She was caught, of course, but not before she managed to plant a rose bush in the middle of the tulip bed. The gardeners are still fuming!” Luke chuckled.

Alaric laughed, the tension in his shoulders easing. “She never ceases to amaze me with her antics.”

After a while, Luke’s tone turned more serious. “I heard about Julian’s party. Are you going?”

Alaric nodded. “Yes, I am. I can’t really deny the invitation, can I?”

Luke frowned. “Are you sure that’s a good idea? Julian’s behavior at Duke Cederic’s birthday party was... off.”

“I know,” Alaric admitted. “But I have to go. It’s part of maintaining these social connections.”

Luke sighed but nodded. “Just be careful, alright?”

The conversation then shifted to Alaric’s journey and his encounters with Prince Lucian. Luke, ever the teaser, couldn’t resist poking fun.

“So, tell me about the Crown Prince. How was the journey?” Luke’s eyes sparkled with mischief.

Alaric blushed. “It was... interesting. Lucian is... not what I expected.”

“Ah! Lucian , I see....There’s something you’re not telling me,” Luke said, leaning in closer.☺

Caught off guard, Alaric hesitated. Then, he told Luke about what happened at Crown Prince Elias’ birthday party—the accusations and the unexpected kiss from Lucian.

Luke’s reaction was a mix of anger and amusement. “How dare they accuse you like that! You’re a noble, for heaven’s sake. And you’d never steal. But that kiss...so what number”

“It was my first...first,” Alaric admitted, blushing even more. “Maybe it was just the heat of the moment. Maybe we were both confused. He’s the Crown Prince, and...”

Luke shook his head. “Listen, I’m no expert on love, but if a man—especially Crown Prince Lucian—kisses you, it’s not out of confusion. He likes you.”

Alaric didn’t respond, lost in thought. Could it be true? Did Lucian genuinely have feelings for him?

Sensing Alaric’s turmoil, Luke shifted the topic. “The cake here is delicious, and look, it’s your favorite.”

Alaric smiled and took a bite, savoring the familiar flavor. Luke’s presence and the sweet treat helped to ground him.

“For Julian’s party, you need to dress well. Don’t let that mini demon get you down. You’re a good person, Alaric, and you deserve to enjoy your life.  Follow your heart.”

“Thank you, Luke,” Alaric said, touched by his friend’s words.

They spent the rest of the day enjoying each other’s company, laughing and sharing stories. For a little while, the complexities of court life and the tensions of his recent experiences faded away.