Chapter 42: Love That Could Burn
Lydia and Ivan walked side by side from the lounge to the dining hall, their hands gently clasped together. Her hands were small in his but she didn’t mind. She could feel the warmth of his fingers against hers, and it made her heart beat faster. She glanced at him shyly, still trying to believe everything that had just happened. It felt too good to be real.
Just as they were about to enter the dining room, they ran into Katherine. She was standing near the door and looked startled to see them holding hands. Her eyes widened slightly as confusion flickered across her face.
"I’ve been looking everywhere for you, Your Highness," she said, her voice directed at Lydia.
Lydia blinked, surprised. "Why?"
Katherine hesitated for a second. "It’s nothing really. It’s just that... you haven’t eaten all day, and then you disappeared. I was wondering if you were okay."
Lydia gave her a small smile. "I’m fine. And yes, I’m hungry."
"Dinner is ready. It’s being set in the dining hall," Katherine said, stepping aside.
"Thanks," Lydia replied softly.
Without another word, she and Ivan walked into the dining room. Ivan said nothing. His expression changed for a moment—just briefly. Lydia caught a glimpse of something in his eyes. Was it hate? Fear? Or something she couldn’t quite understand?
Katherine watched them from the door. Her hands were clenched at her sides, and her face showed a mix of fear and worry.
The dining room felt different tonight. It was quiet, warm, and for once, peaceful. Lydia sat close to Ivan. He took his usual seat at the head of the table. She sat beside him, constantly glancing at his face like it was all still a dream. It was hard to believe he was here, sitting beside her, after all the coldness before.