Chapter 7: A Need To Be Careful
She swallowed the panic threatening to bubble over and took a deep, steadying breath. ’No... I can’t lose my cool. I have to think this through. Whoever did this doesn’t know about the switch. They think I’m the same Evelisse.’
Fluffy trembled beside her, its tiny, pink body puffing up as if trying to make itself appear larger and more intimidating. "Princess... this is bad. Really bad."
Evelisse clenched her fists, her nails biting into her palms. ’I know. But I can’t let them see me break down. I have to act like I’m completely oblivious. No one can know I’m suspicious of anything.’
Fluffy nodded slowly. "You’re right. If they sense you’re aware, it could get worse."
Evelisse forced herself to take another breath, loosening her clenched hands. ’I’ll complete the fluffy task first. The tea party will give me a chance to get closer to my brothers and gather information. After that... I’ll find out more about those who kidnapped the original Evelisse. They must know something.’
Fluffy’s eyes shone with a strange mix of pride and worry. "That’s brave of you, Princess. Just... be careful."
Evelisse smiled, though it didn’t reach her eyes. ’I didn’t survive a miserable life and cancer just to die in this one. I’ll find out the truth, and I’ll make sure nothing happens to me. But first, I have to get through this tea party.’
With a final glance at the ribbon fluttering in the breeze, Evelisse turned on her heel, forcing a bright, innocent expression onto her face as she made her way back to her room. She had a tea party to prepare for.
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Once inside, Evelisse sighed in relief. ’One problem at a time,’ she thought, glancing at the large, ornate clock on the wall. There was still time to prepare for the tea party, but she needed to look the part.
Just as she was contemplating her outfit, a soft knock sounded at her door. One of the maids peeked in, bowing politely.