Episode 3

I spent the whole day in bed, still struggling to believe that I had returned to my past. When I realized it, night had fallen and the garden was aglow with myriad lights. I had forgotten that I needed to go downstairs, as I was the guest of honor. Dressing quickly, I dashed towards the stairs. Descending and entering the throne room, a wave of happiness washed over me at the sight of my parents alive again. I rushed over and embraced them. The emperors were surprised, but they reciprocated the embrace all the same.

"Come now, you're an adult, behave yourself."

"I-I'm sorry Mother, I'm just so happy to see you both."

"Silly child, you just saw us yesterday."

"You speak as if your parents never have time for you," remarked the emperor with a laugh. Perhaps they were always busy, but never once missed a family meal.

"Now go, you must host this celebration."

"Yes, Mother, I will go greet everyone."

As guests arrived, they immediately sought out the prince to present him with precious gifts; the higher their rank, the more lavish the token. Eventually, a familiar carriage rolled to a stop—it belonged to the Rose baron family. Not yet prepared to face that girl, I discreetly moved from the entrance and mingled with the crowd. Just as I stepped aside, Baron Rose and his daughter, Daisy Rose, entered the festivity. Although Baron Rose was taken aback not to be greeted by the prince, he still handed his daughter a box and instructed her to find the prince. Many praised the beauty of his daughter, and naturally, he aimed to exploit it; the prince was yet unengaged, making it an opportune time to capitalize on Daisy's marital prospects, for as a woman, the least she could do was marry well.

The girl roamed the party in search of the prince, but each time she caught a glimpse of him, he would move away, not even pausing for her greeting. However, finally, Aiden stopped in his tracks when Baron Rose blocked his path with a courteous greeting.

"Your Highness, allow me to present my precious daughter Daisy."

"Delighted to meet you, Your Highness."

With extreme care, the girl lifted one side of her dress, curtsying deeply before presenting him with her gift.

Though Aiden did not reply, remaining silent, internally struggling to restrain his anger toward the girl. Although he had yet to act, there was no doubt in his mind that she would only use and betray him. He accepted the gift but did not linger to engage in conversation; instead, he hurried out to the patio and into the vast garden. He paused, far enough from the festivities, searching for a place to sit, only to stop in his tracks at the sight of a familiar figure.

It was her, there could be no mistake, bathed in moonlight, dazzling him anew. Yet he was ripped from his reverie by the realization that no, this was not the night they had met—not even the place. Did straying from Daisy mean the future was altering? If so, perhaps this time everything could change, and he could survive.