CHAPTER 18
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Rosa's POV
After the quiet breakfast with Bryant, he stood without a word and walked out of the chambers. Duty, I assumed. His steps echoed softly down the corridor until the door clicked shut.
I sighed, sinking back into my chair. I couldn't tell what I felt—disappointed? Relieved? Frustrated?
Eventually, I returned to my own chambers. The silence there felt even heavier than before. Days turned into weeks, and he didn't call for me. Not even once. And despite everything… I couldn't bring myself to go to him either.
But his presence haunted me—his touch, his warmth, the way his voice softened just enough when he said my name. I found myself constantly thinking about him, reliving that night in quiet torment.
Maybe I just needed a distraction.
So, when Paige suggested a visit to the local market—a place filled with life, laughter, and road-side cuisines—I agreed.
We dressed plainly, nothing regal or fancy. Paige even handed me a faded brown shawl to conceal my face. It was nice, being just a regular woman for a while. No Luna. No title. Just Rosa.
The market was alive with music and colors. We tried skewered meats dipped in honey glaze, roasted fruits, sweet buns, and more. I giggled as I nearly spilled a sauce on my dress and Paige scolded me like a sister.
We tried on shiny hairpins, admired embroidered shoes, and even bargained for scarves.
Then… I saw it.
A tailored male robe in deep forest green, lined with silver at the collar and cuffs. It was strong yet elegant, powerful yet subtle. Immediately, Bryant came to mind.
I stood still, staring.
> "He would look good in that," I whispered, mostly to myself.
> "Ahem."
I turned at the sound of someone clearing their throat.
Edward.
His soft smile barely masked the glint in his eyes.
> "Your Majesty," he greeted with a slight bow.
I curtsied politely. "Your Highness."
> "I can see you're enjoying yourself," he said, his voice smooth and teasing. "My brother must be giving you… love." He smirked, the emphasis almost taunting.
I didn't respond. I wasn't sure how to.
He leaned in slightly, lowering his voice.
> "A little advice—don't fall in love with Bryant. He's heartless. I should know. I grew up with him." His eyes darkened. "He only married you to save his throne. Don't think for a second it was for you."
His words pierced something I wasn't ready to admit even to myself.
> "I—" I started, but he cut me off.
> "Oh, and one last thing..." His smirk grew cruel. "Be careful, Princess Rosa Blaire."
The ground beneath me seemed to disappear.
My breath caught.
Did he just…?
He walked away laughing, hands in his pocket like he hadn't just thrown my entire soul into chaos.
> "Your Majesty!" Paige's cheerful voice snapped me back. She raised a paper-wrapped chicken pot proudly. "They added extra spice, just like you like it!"
I forced a smile. "Let's get back to the palace. I'm tired."
> "Tired? But there's still more to see! I wanted to show you the herb section. You'll love it."
> "Paige," I said firmly, "where's the carriage?"
She frowned but obeyed, turning to lead me back.
As we walked away, I felt eyes on me.
I glanced back, just briefly.
And there, in the shadows behind a crimson silk stall, stood Matilda.
Her arms were folded.
Her lips curled into a smirk.
And her eyes—burning with fire.
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