Judge of Cosmos

CHAPTER 2

A brand new day dawned over Clarke Manor, and the maids were busily tidying every corner. News had spread quickly of the visit from the young lady's lover, the crown prince of the Solitaire Empire, Finn Arzhala Solitaire.

"Young lady, please do not run!" Tilda called out, exasperated, as she watched Kathleen bound down the stairs, her excitement palpable.

Kathleen had been sulking and crying in her room for days, but the moment she heard that the crown prince was visiting, her spirits lifted. She'd adorned herself with the finest jewels and a beautiful dress, looking as if she were about to attend a grand ball.

Tilda sighed.

Kathleen Clarke, the young lady of Clarke County, was widely known as the lover of the crown prince. With her fiery red hair, so much like her father's, and her glistening green eyes that radiated a fresh, minty vibrancy, she was a vision that had captivated the future emperor.

"Finn!" she squealed, rushing toward the man who had just arrived. "I missed you! Why haven't you visited me this past week? Do you not want me anymore because of the deal? I promise you, I won't marry the Grand Duke!"

Finn Arzhala Solitaire.

His cerulean blue eyes softened as Kathleen threw her arms around him, her embrace as sudden as it was affectionate. Rather than feeling annoyed, a gentle smile played on his lips, and he tenderly caressed her rose-red hair.

"Kathleen," he murmured, his voice filled with affection. "I'm here now, aren't I? Please, don't give me that sulky face, okay?"

Kathleen, soothed by his tender words, began to relax. But as she opened her mouth to speak, a voice echoed through the room, causing her to pout as she noticed the man giving her a strange look.

"Father," she muttered, retreating to the sofa.

"Your Highness, it is an honor to welcome you to our humble abode," Count Clarke said, entering the room with a formal greeting.

"Count Clarke," Finn replied with a subtle smile.

As they settled in the county's office, the servants knew their cue and scurried about, their movements quick and precise, like small animals in the presence of their betters.

A freshly brewed Earl Grey tea was served, its fragrant steam curling in the air. Count Clarke, about to begin the discussion, hesitated as his eyes fell on his daughter. Kathleen seemed blissfully unaware that this meeting with the crown prince was meant to be private.

"Kathleen, go back to your room," he instructed.

"What? No!" she retorted, crossing her arms defiantly.

Count Clarke sighed heavily, rubbing his temples in frustration. He was at a loss, unable to handle his daughter's stubbornness. Defeated, he turned to Finn with a pleading look.