Chapter 290: The Kids Of Princes
One of the younger maids, emboldened by curiosity, risked a quiet whisper to another. "The prince was seen leaving the palace late last night," she murmured, her words barely audible.
But Irene caught it. Her sharp eyes darted to the girl, and the room fell silent.
"Speak," she commanded, her tone cold and unyielding.
The maid’s face turned pale as she stammered, "I-I only heard that the prince was seen riding out of the gates last night, Your Highness. I don’t know where he went."
Irene’s lips pressed into a thin line. She dismissed the maid with a wave of her hand, her mind racing.
As the final touches were added to her attire—a delicate tiara set with emeralds to match her dress—Irene felt a surge of emptiness.
The finery, the titles, the obligations—it all felt meaningless without a partner who truly cared for her.
She had once dreamed of a marriage filled with love and companionship, but reality had been far less kind.
"Enough," she said abruptly, rising from her chair. The maids stepped back in unison, bowing their heads.
Clarisse approached her cautiously. "Your Highness, you look beautiful. The court will be envious of your grace today."
Irene forced a small smile, though it didn’t reach her eyes. "Let them envy," she replied. "It’s all I seem to have left to offer."