Bind with Destiny

Chapter 60:

Soon after, they stepped outside where the carriage awaited. Sir Mao stood beside it, ever composed and attentive.

But when Davina appeared, even he paused.

Just slightly.

His eyes swept over her—royal blue silk, delicate jewelry, carefully styled hair.

Then he stepped forward, regaining his usual calm demeanor.

"Milady," he said respectfully as he assisted Roselyn first, then offered his hand to Davina.

His grip was steady as she stepped into the carriage.

Yet for a brief moment, his gaze softened.

"You look... fitting for the occasion," he added.

It was subtle.

Measured.

But coming from him, it felt far more significant than an exaggerated compliment.

Davina held his gaze for a heartbeat longer before taking her seat.

~~~

After nearly two hours of travel, their carriage arrived at the palace where Ian's birthday banquet would be held.

Instead of stopping at the grand front entrance, they were discreetly guided to a side arrival area by one of Duke Vego's knights. It was a privilege granted only to distinguished guests—and to the birthday celebrant's partner.

Ian was already waiting there.

He stood tall in his formal attire, with Sir Lev positioned quietly at his side. The moment the carriage stopped, Sir Mao stepped down first, as expected. He assisted Marquis Bennett, then Roselyn.

When Davina was about to descend, Ian moved forward.

He offered his hand before Sir Mao could.

There was no hesitation in his gesture.

Davina glanced briefly at Sir Mao—just for a second—before placing her hand in Ian's.

"Thank you, Your Grace," she said gracefully once both her feet touched the ground.

Ian did not immediately release her hand. His eyes briefly examined her gown—the royal blue fabric, the jewelry he had personally selected and sent.

"...It suits you," he said, his tone lower than usual.

The colors matched his own attire perfectly.

"Thank you for the compliment," Davina replied politely. "You look handsome as well, Your Grace."

A faint flush dusted Ian's ears, though he quickly recovered and offered his arm.

She accepted it.

Marquis Bennett and Roselyn followed behind them. Sir Lev trailed after his master, while Sir Mao walked slightly further back—close enough to protect, far enough to observe.

Upon entering the palace, they were guided to a private waiting chamber near the banquet hall. As tradition dictated, Ian and Davina would be the last to enter once the event officially began.

Thus, Davina was temporarily separated from her grandfather and mother. Sir Lev remained near the door. Sir Mao stood quietly at a respectful distance.

The room grew quieter.

"You look nervous," Ian remarked gently once they were alone enough to speak freely.

Davina blinked. "Do I?"