Chapter 8

Hope’s days under Sir Roderick’s training had begun in earnest. The first few days were grueling—her entire body ached as if she had been trampled by a herd of wild horses. Every muscle screamed in protest, and she often collapsed onto her bed after each session, too exhausted to move.

Yet, as time passed, her body began to adapt. She could move more freely, think more clearly, and endure the training without feeling like she was knocking on death’s door.

One afternoon, after an intense session, Hope lay sprawled on her bed, her limbs sore but her mind sharper than ever.

Shiri entered quietly, carrying a silver tray with a steaming cup of herbal tonic. She placed it on the bedside table before hesitating, her gaze lingering on her mistress.

Hope noticed and sighed, a small smile tugging at her lips. “Shiri, if there’s something on your mind, just say it.”

Shiri bit her lip before speaking hesitantly. “My lady… you’ve changed a lot since you woke up from your illness.”

Hope’s expression remained calm, but inwardly, her thoughts stirred. That’s true… But what exactly happened to the real Evelina? And what about my own body?

She glanced at Shiri, the only person in this unfamiliar world whom she truly trusted. The girl had been by her side through everything, always looking out for her, always trying to cheer her up. She feels more like a younger sister than a maid…

Noticing Shiri’s worried expression, Hope reached for her hand and patted it reassuringly. “After coming so close to death, I decided it was time to change,” she said softly.

Shiri hesitated, then asked in a low voice, “Miss… is it true? About Prince Caelum?”

Hope’s smile didn’t waver. “Yes, Shiri. I have no intention of chasing after the crown prince anymore. Everyone knows he only has eyes for Salena. It’s high time I let go.”

Shiri’s expression darkened slightly. “But, my lady—”

Hope cut her off gently. “It’s alright, Shiri. This is for the best.”

The rest of the day passed peacefully, the calm before an unexpected storm.

A Summons from the Crown Prince

The next morning, an elegant letter arrived at Greystone Manor. The royal seal was unmistakable—an invitation from Prince Caelum himself. It was addressed to both Salena and Evelina.

When the duke received the letter, he immediately summoned them.

Hope stood before him, listening as he, in his usual cold and authoritative manner, lectured her about proper etiquette. “You will behave yourself, Evelina. Do not bring shame upon our household.”

She barely refrained from rolling her eyes. Instead, she asked, “Why does the prince wish to meet us?”

The duke frowned. “You were childhood friends with him, were you not? Perhaps he simply wishes to reminisce. Or perhaps…” His gaze sharpened. “I thought you liked him.”

Hope’s lips curled into a humorless smile. “That was true once. But not anymore.”

The duke observed her for a long moment before giving a dismissive wave of his hand. “Regardless, you will go. The son of the Marquis—” he paused, “—Marquis Damon’s heir, Cedric Evandale, will also be present.”

Hope raised an eyebrow at the mention of Cedric, but before she could question further, the duke ended the conversation.

The Day of the Meeting

The sun shone brightly as the day of the gathering arrived.

Salena looked stunning, dressed in an elegant gown that accentuated her delicate features. Her beauty was breathtaking—anyone who laid eyes on her would undoubtedly fall for her.

Hope, however, chose a simple yet refined dress, prioritizing comfort over grandeur. She had no interest in impressing Prince Caelum.

As she approached the carriage, she noticed Salena speaking in hushed tones with Regas. The two stood close, their expressions unreadable as they exchanged words.

Hope paused at the sight, her thoughts drifting. It’s clear that the duke sees Evelina as nothing more than an obligation… but does Regas hate her too?

She had always wondered. The previous duchess—Evelina’s mother—had died giving birth to her. Did Regas resent his younger sister because of that?

Hope sighed inwardly. The real Evelina must have been truly lonely…

Shaking off the thought, she stepped forward. It was time to face the prince.

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