Chapter 274: [Bonus - ]
That night, when the clock struck twelve, Inna’s birthday had been celebrated by everyone. Alaric’s wife had to retire early to bed since she had inevitable duties to fulfill in the morning, whilst she left everyone to themselves while her personal servant escorted her to her quarters. Amade and Oliver were also present at that time, and it was a special treat from Alaric since they had done so much for his Kingdom, thus, allowing the future Duke and his family to celebrate their accomplishments in his Palace wasn’t much of a big deal for him.
Cassian was more of his right-hand man, but also his trusted friend.
At the balcony that overlooks the celebration happening below, Inna stood at the balcony’s edge, her long dark-brownish hair cascading down her shoulders, whilst her fingers caressed the strings of her cello. She played a very low haunting melody, one fit for a night as peaceful as this, and the tune barely got past the balcony for others to savor the melody, but anyone who was lucky enough to pass at the time wouldn’t be able to stop themselves from being mesmerized by the sound.
Below, cheerful laughter could be heard everywhere, and Inna could see Orson explaining to Madeline how Cassian had reacted when he saw him at the village. The genuine laugh on Madeline’s bright face as she listened to Orson tease her husband also brought a smile to Inna’s lips. What birthday gift could be better than seeing her family all together and happy again?
"Beautiful night, isn’t it?" Elian’s refined velvety tone made Inna turn her head slightly to acknowledge his aristocratic presence. His warm green eyes were fixed on her as he began to approach her from the entrance where he stood, watching her for who knows how long he’s been standing there.
"Elian?"
He came to stand beside Inna, leaning his back against the edge as he looked at her pretty face. She remained seemingly unfazed by his presence, but Elian could tell from the slight blush creeping in that it was just a mask to hide her emotions beneath her calm exterior.
"What brings you here to the balcony?" She asked curtly, keeping her cello aside. But then her brown eyes instinctively lifted to meet his green eyes, and they narrowed suspiciously under his gaze. "If you’re here to annoy me then I will get Orson for you, he will lock you up for messing with a Duke’s sister, so think twice about your motive before you start."
Elian simply rolled his eyes before shoving his hand into the pocket of his long black coat as if searching for something. Inna’s judgemental gaze watched him clear his throat awkwardly, and then to her puzzlement, he brought out a small elegant crafted box, extending it for her to receive without looking at her.
"Here, for you." She heard him say, but Inna eyed the box with curiosity, refusing to take it since his motive still remained unclear to her.
"What’s this?"