Chapter 282: Preparing For The Grand Day 1
The castle was abuzz with excitement as preparations for the king’s birthday reached a fever pitch. The recent killings and kidnappings were now behind them, leaving the kingdom in a rare state of relief and happiness. Everywhere, maids bustled around, ironing their finest dresses, chefs scurried in the kitchens preparing elaborate feasts, and courtiers polished their jewelry to perfection.
Even the villages outside the castle were alive with celebration as banners were hung, marketplaces thrived, and the air hummed with chatter about the grand event.
Jean sat in her chambers, staring at her modest collection of dresses with growing dissatisfaction. She sighed heavily, hands on her hips, and muttered to herself, "None of these will do. Not for the king’s birthday."
Lucius, leaning casually against the doorframe, watched her with a small smile playing on his lips. "Then let’s get you something new," he offered.
Jean turned to him, raising a skeptical brow. "And who’s going to help me find it? You? In the middle of the day?"
Lucius’s smile widened, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "I’ve handled worse than a bit of sunlight for you, Jean. Love makes you do reckless things, doesn’t it?"
She crossed her arms, trying to hide the smile threatening to tug at her lips. "You’re hopeless."
"And yet you still put up with me," he teased, pushing off the doorframe. "Come on. Let’s go find Manni. He’ll take us into the market."
Jean hesitated. "Are you sure? You’ll need your umbrella, and it’s risky—"