Chapter 49: You’ve changed
Lira’s cheeks flushed instantly. She didn’t even try to hide her blush this time. The words still echoed in her ears—"I don’t want my girl looking like a maid when she walks into the palace beside me."
Beside him.
He hadn’t said with me as my servant. He’d said beside me. That meant something. Something... more. She wasn’t sure what exactly, but her heart was already racing in her chest like a drum. With a soft smile creeping on her lips, she quickened her steps and caught up with him. Then, without thinking too much about it, she gently held onto his arm. Her fingers wrapped around his bicep like it was the most natural thing in the world. She clung to him like a girl in love, not the dutiful maid everyone knew her to be.
Lucas looked down, caught by surprise, but he didn’t mind. Not one bit. He let her hold on, walking casually as if they did this every day. A small, amused smile tugged at the edge of his lips.
Soon, they reached the women’s clothing section. The stall owners were already throwing their best smiles, catching sight of Lucas’s rich robes and Lira’s delicate face. One look at the two of them, and it was clear, this wasn’t just a master and servant shopping trip. No, there was something more.
Lira tried outfit after outfit, giggling and twirling like a child as the fabric danced around her. Lucas stood with his arms crossed, watching quietly. He didn’t say much, but his eyes followed her every movement. She was glowing today, alive in a way he hadn’t seen before.
She finally settled on a beautiful wine-red gown. It hugged her waist perfectly and flowed with elegance. The color made her look radiant, more mature, and incredibly graceful. Lucas gave a subtle nod of approval, and Lira caught it. That alone was enough to make her day.
But Lucas wasn’t done. As she admired herself shyly in the mirror, he signaled the tailor to wrap up two more gowns she had tried earlier. When Lira turned to ask what he was doing, he merely shrugged and said, "You’ll need options."
And then, as if it wasn’t enough, he led her across to another stall, this one filled with fine jewelry and accessories. Bracelets, earrings, delicate hairpins, he bought a modest but beautiful set for her. A silver band with a red gem, matching her new dress, and a pair of simple earrings to go with it.
"Master... I... thank you," she said, bowing her head, her voice trembling just slightly. Her eyes looked glassy for a moment.
Lucas didn’t reply. He just gave her a small pat on the head. "You’re welcome."