I was stunned when I opened the candidate folder and saw, embossed in dark ink on crisp parchment, the name "Lyle." His name stood alone under the position of Advisor, while alongside it, Thérèse Louise of Savoy was listed as my Head Lady-in-Waiting.
I had no quarrel with Thérèse—her House was one I knew well, and her reputation assured me that she would serve as diligently as Lady Haisley. But Lyle… the very sight of his name sent a shudder through my soul.
The parchment's surface felt cool under my fingertips, yet the shock burning inside me was anything but.
How could an Imperial Knight—someone whose duty was steeped in honor and martial valor—consider the role of political advisor?
I wondered if it was mere ambition fueled by passion, or if he was driven by some twisted desire to be near me again.
