Episode 6

Aiden found himself alone on the balcony, perching on the railing, hoping that Raven would accept his request. He longed to avoid further encounters with Daisy. Baron Rose was relentless and would continue to push for his daughter's meetings with Aiden, as he had done before, always seeking him out to share how much Daisy talked about him and her desire to see him—a sentiment seemingly reciprocated by him according to palace rumors. Now Aiden knew it was all a facade, that Daisy had only used him as a stepping stone to power.

Just as he was about to leave, Daisy emerged onto the same balcony. Aiden froze, regarding her with contempt as she curtsied and offered a sweet smile.

"Your Highness, seeking solitude as well? What a coincidence..."

Aiden thought avoiding her initially would keep her at bay, but it seemed not.

"Yes, it's quite suffocating inside with so many people."

"I understand. I hope you don't mind if I stay here for a while."

"No, go ahead, you're free to roam the hall."

"That's wonderful. I hope we can chat about..."

Aiden completely ignored her and hurried back inside, hoping she'd grasp his disinterest. Daisy stood annoyed on the balcony, unaccustomed to being disregarded by men, particularly by a prince who seemed to avoid her outright. Tired of the festivities—even though he was the guest of honor—Aiden excused himself to his parents, claiming he felt unwell since morning and took this as an opportunity to exit the hall. Raven noticed Aiden's departure, and Vivian did too, nudging her with an elbow.

"Go on, he might be the love of your life slipping away."

"Vivian, it's not what you think."

Raven couldn't divulge the prince's desire for a sham engagement without Vivian insisting she turn it down. She rose to follow Aiden, catching up just as he turned a corner flanked by guards, which meant she could go no further. Raven rushed forward but was halted.

"Wait, Your Highness!"

Aiden stopped and turned, signaling the guards to let her pass when he saw it was Raven. He asked her to follow him to his chambers, inviting her to sit in the small sitting area of his bedroom.

"Regarding the proposal, explain the details to me."

Aiden smiled, confident that she would agree to help him. If he remembered anything about her, it was her generosity despite her abrasive nature.

"Pretend we're in love and get engaged. For the duration of the engagement, I'll pay you this amount."

He wrote a sum on a piece of paper to show what he was willing to offer.

"All this for a fake engagement?"

"Yes, if it comes to marriage, I promise not to enforce marital duties, and the term will be for four years, after which I'll grant you a mansion and a monthly stipend."

"It's a fair deal, but why go to such lengths? You could marry a woman for real. Just pick one."

"I've said that's not an option. I don't want future troubles with someone unwilling to divorce."

"True, but what if I turn out the same? You don't know my true intentions."

"I know you won't be like that. Believe it or not, I know enough about you, Miss Raven."

"Are you a stalker, then?"

"Hey! What are you saying? You'll have many benefits."

"Fine, I'll do it—provided your father has no objections. If you know about me, you'll be aware that I have no family and live with Miss Vivian, courtesy of her mother's promise to mine."

"I'm aware, but my father can't object—your friend's family are dukes thanks to your parents' elevation."

"Well informed indeed. If there are no objections, then I will now be your betrothed."

"Of course. And I will soon visit your friend's house to formally propose."

Aiden extended his hand, and she accepted it, sealing their agreement.

***This work has been signed with NovelToon, and piracy such as reprinting without permission is strictly prohibited.***

***Download NovelToon to enjoy a better reading experience!***