Chapter 552
Zeleskiaz’s roughness was evident to everyone, even those who were far from the group. Yet it was only a glance that he received... before Clemente answered his unnecessary inquiry.
"... It is nothing." — Nonchalant, Noverrne said. — "It was also good to see you, your highness. Now if you may excuse."
"Go, have a safe return, son."
Solemn, Clemente left after bowing to the men and the woman, supported by Orland who knew the young duke was wise in his response. Nevertheless, even as he retreated peacefully, the curiosity had already been instilled in those who remained at the shop because of Karina’s behaviour.
Conversations were not as lively afterwards as the confusion only made them question the reasons behind it. Theories had quickly taken place in those who had seen how the woman turned of deeper blue once addressing the crown prince before rushing out and it was not only the guests’ imagination that feared what the motives behind Karina’s tears could be.
’... Don’t. Don’t overthink...’ — She told herself. — ’Something happened, yes... but it’s not her nor the book who I should trust but him instead... Keep it together, don’t jump to conclusions like last time.’
Desperately, Marianne repeated and repeated in her head. Needy of the reassurance only he could give... and so becoming unsettled as it could not be given as soon as she wished.
A nervous turmoil did not allow her to properly enjoy of the last bits of the celebration. Much more after her father denied the crown prince’s request to join her in the carriage back to the Palace. Staying separated as her father decided it was enough freedom to grant their secret courtship; furthermore as he also grew aporetic at what the woman’s behaviour had insinuated.
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