Return of the General's Daughter

Lara managed a hesitant embrace in return, patting Amelia’s back stiffly before stepping away. "Amelia, my servant told me about you," she said slowly, the words feeling foreign on her tongue. "And... about the Saturdays I used to spend at your home. I’m sorry I can’t remember."

Amelia nodded in understanding. "It is alright. We can make new memories." She looked at Lara gently. Then, she turned to the other ladies and gave a triumphant smile.

Janna’s gaze darkened, eyes narrowing at Amelia’s display.

Lara was at a loss what to do. She didn’t know how to interact with them, but a nagging intuition whispered that they had ulterior motives for approaching her. She could guess what it was, as she pieced together their subtle glances toward the prince and hushed whispers.

Lara straightened and turned gracefully to Prince Reuben, who had been observing the scene with mild curiosity. "Your Highness," she began, her voice smooth and unhurried, "this is Amelia—my childhood friend."

Amelia beamed happily. She curtsied and uttered "Your Highness," with crazed reverence. The rest of the ladies scrambled to introduce themselves when Amelia made no effort to introduce them.

Silence descended once the introductions concluded, stretching taut and uncomfortable. Lara stifled a yawn behind her hand, exhaustion settling into her bones. The room suddenly felt suffocating, the eyes of strangers heavy and unrelenting.

Bener stepped forward smoothly, his voice cutting through the tension like a knife. "Your Highness, Father, Mother," he addressed the crowd with practiced ease. "As you know, the journey was long and taxing. Let us allow Lara to rest. There will be plenty of time to reacquaint in the days to come."

Lara turned to him, her expression filled with unspoken gratitude. In the midst of a crowd of unfamiliar faces and hidden intentions, she felt relieved to have someone who understood her exhaustion.