𝙱𝚎𝚗𝚎𝚊𝚝𝚑 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚁𝚘𝚢𝚊𝚕 𝚅𝚎𝚒𝚕

CHAPTER 6

As time passes, you find yourself at the dinner, the atmosphere more intimate now with just a few guests and of course, Lady Lucidia. The room is filled with soft chatter and the clinking of silverware against plates.

You sit in silence, your mind still occupied with thoughts of Prince Eris and the announcement he's about to make. Lady Lucidia, however, seems eager to fill the silence.

"Such a lovely dinner, isn't it?" she remarks, her voice light and casual. She takes a sip of her wine, her eyes flickering over to you. "And the company is just wonderful."

Lady Lucidia lets her hand rest lightly on Prince Eris's arm, her touch coy and flirtatious. Her eyes linger on him as she speaks, her tone sweet and simpering.

"Isn't the food delightful, Prince Eris? The chefs have outdone themselves."

she pauses, her eyes looking at you. while speaking to Prince Eris "Shall we announce the news? I think it's time."

Prince Eris, his eyes on Lady Lucidia's hand, his expression remains stoic. He nods curtly.

"Yes, I suppose we shall."

He stands, his eyes sweeping over the gathered guests. The chatter in the room dies down, all eyes now on him.

Prince Eris stands at the head of the table, his gaze steady and regal as he addresses the room. His voice is strong and clear, carrying throughout the room.

"Gathered guests, thank you for joining me today to celebrate my birthday."

He pauses, his eyes sweeping across the sea of faces, his gaze lingering on you for a moment.

"Today is not just a day of celebration, however. Today also marks a significant milestone in my life."

He glances at Lady Lucidia, who is practically vibrating with excitement beside him.

"It is with great pleasure that I announce to you all..." he pauses, his eyes roaming over the room, yet he seems to be staring at you longer than the others. The whole room is silent, hanging on his every word. "My engagement to Lady Lucidia."

His words hit you like a punch to the gut. Hearing him announce his engagement to Lady Lucidia felt like a betrayal, a cold slap in the face after the connection and warmth you'd shared months ago.

Lady Lucidia beside him is practically glowing, her smile wide and victorious.

The room erupts into applause, the gathered guests applauding the news. Many of them look over at the couple, their faces filled with genuine joy and happiness.

Hearing the praises makes you feel ill.

"Congratulations" "This is indeed a celebration, Your Highness" "What a lucky Lady."

"I must be invited to the wedding!"

You sit there, stunned, your heart heavy and raw.

Prince Eris notices you staring at him. His eyes lock with yours for a moment, a flicker of... something, almost like guilt, passes over his face. He looks away quickly.

Lady Lucidia, on the other hand, does notice your stunned look. She glances at you, a sly, triumphant smirk on her face.

"Excuse me for a moment." Your sudden movement catches the attention of the room, and whispers start filling the air. The guests, including Lady Lucidia and Prince Eris, all watch as you rush out of the dining room, your emotions clearly visible.

Lady Lucidia's smirk widens, her eyes glittering with victory.

You walk down the corridor, your mind and heart in turmoil. The tears you've been holding back finally escape, streaming down your face in a silent cascade.