Chapter 2

2.

I hurried out of the backyard, my chest feeling so heavy I could barely breathe.

Just as I reached the main gate, I ran into one of Silas's close friends.

He froze when he saw me, his face filled with surprise. "Miss Lyra? When did you get back? I just heard the young Master is... wait, why isn't Silas with you?"

I stared at him blankly and forced a small smile. "I just came back to see my foster father. Silas obviously has more important things to do."

As I spoke, I heard footsteps behind me.

I turned around to see Silas. A flicker of surprise crossed his eyes, followed quickly by his usual warm smile. "Lyra, why didn't you tell me you were coming home today? If I'd known, I would have picked you up myself."

His words were like a warm breeze, filled with his habitual concern. For a second, I felt a sense of vertigo.

The memory of that night years ago flashed through my mind. Silas had held me gently and whispered in my ear. "Once you turn eighteen, I'll ask my father for your hand in marriage."

I couldn't help but look him over. Suddenly, I realized the jade pendant I had personally made for him was gone from his waist. In its place was an exquisite silk sachet.

Before I could process it, Silas stepped aside and made an inviting gesture. "You've been away at the academy for so long. You must miss the food in the capital. It just so happens we're having a banquet tonight. Your favorites will be served."

I stared at him, my heart wavering. I couldn't help but think that maybe he would take this chance to explain. Maybe the rumors were just a misunderstanding. Maybe he really just... hadn't found the right time to tell me.

With that thought, I nodded.

Silas's smile deepened as he led me toward the banquet hall.

I had just climbed over the wall earlier and hadn't had the chance to look around properly.

As I followed Silas deeper into the estate, I noticed the place was decked out in lanterns and streamers. Colorful silk ribbons danced in the wind. The whole place looked festive.

My heart sank. I had a feeling this grand display was for his union with the Montgomery family.

As if on cue, several servants bustled past, whispering to each other. "The chosen wet nurse has arrived. The mistress said to get her settled immediately."

Seeing the strange look on my face, Silas stiffened. Then, he gave a vague smile and muttered a clumsy excuse. "That's just an arrangement for a colleague's child. Don't overthink it."

Standing beside him, I felt a bitter cold spread through my chest. The last shred of hope finally vanished.

He wouldn't even tell me the truth.