𝙱𝚎𝚗𝚎𝚊𝚝𝚑 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚁𝚘𝚢𝚊𝚕 𝚅𝚎𝚒𝚕

CHAPTER 25

Kaylee's eyes widen at your request, clearly unprepared for such a task. But she quickly nods, her expression serious. "Yes, princess," she says, dropping into a curtsey. "I will send someone for Lady Lucidia at once."

As she leaves to fulfill your request, you can feel the other maids' eyes on you, their expressions a mix of curiosity and concern. But you ignore them, your mind focused on what you might learn from Lady Lucidia.

Your heart flutters at the news, a mix of anticipation and anxiety filling you. "Thank you, Kaylee," you say, trying to keep your voice even. "Please lead the way."

Kaylee nods and leads you through the castle's winding corridors until you reach the expansive library. The aroma of old parchment and leather binding fills the air, a comforting scent you've come to love. At the far end of the room, sitting stiffly in a high-backed chair, is Lucidia.

She rises at the sight of you, her expression guarded. "Princess," she says, her voice flat, "You wanted to see me?"

As you glance at Kaylee, she quickly takes the cue and excuses herself quietly, leaving you alone with Lucidia. You take a deep breath, gathering your thoughts as you face Lucidia.

You take a moment to gather your thoughts before speaking. "I've heard some...rumors about you, Lady Lucidia." you say after a pause, your voice even. "Rumor that I would like to confirm."

Lucidia raises an eyebrow, her expression cool and unbothered. "And what rumors might those be?" she asks, slightly smiling.

"Rumor that you were seen in... a compromising position with Prince Eris," you say, keeping your voice level. "That you were caught in the stables, in an embrace that seemed more than friendly."

Lucidia's smile only widens, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Ah, those rumors," she says, her voice soft. "It seems the chatter of the castle has been busy."

You study her face closely, searching for any hint of deception or guilt. "So they're just rumors then?" you say slowly. "There's no truth to them at all?"

Lucidia twirls a strand of her hair, her lips curved into a sly smile. "Well, rumors have a way of growing and twisting the truth, don't they?" she says, her voice dripping with feigned innocence.

You narrow your eyes slightly at her response, your gut telling you there's more than meets the eye. "That's not exactly a denial, Lady Lucidia," you say, keeping your tone even.

Lucidia chuckles lightly, seemingly enjoying the game she's playing. "Oh, my dear princess," she says, her voice low and sultry. "You always had a knack for seeing through the facades, didn't you?"

You force yourself to keep your expression neutral, refusing to show any sign that you're rattled by her charm. "I'm asking you again, Lady Lucidia," you say firmly. "Did you kiss Prince Eris? Did you force yourself on him?"

Lucidia's smile widens further, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Force myself on him?" she repeats, feigning shock. "My dear princess, how could you even suggest such a thing? Prince Eris is a strong and powerful man. He would hardly be forced into anything he didn't want."

You clench your fists, fighting the urge to lose your temper. "Stop dodging the question," you snap. "Did you kiss him, yes or no?"

Lucidia's smile falters slightly as she sees your frustration. She takes a step closer, her voice dropping lower. "And what if I did?" she whispers, her eyes locked on yours. "What if I did kiss him? Would it really surprise you?"

Your heart sinks at her words, the confirmation hitting you hard. You struggle to keep your emotions controlled. "Why?" you whisper, your voice cracking. "Why would you do such a thing? You know he's mine!"