[Imperial Capital, Angelis]
The sun dipped low in the golden skies above the Imperial Capital Angelis, painting the marbled towers of the royal palace in hues of amber and rose.
The Palace of Lumen Grace, a pristine, majestic structure that housed the Imperial Princess, was silent save for the gentle rustling of curtains and the soft steps of servants.
Inside a grand, opulently decorated room—lined with ivory columns, draped silks, and golden trim—Charlotte De Angelis sat alone at her ornate writing desk.
The warm evening light filtered in through towering windows, casting gentle shadows across the floor made of polished moonstone.
Velvet drapes fluttered softly with the breeze of enchanted air magic that kept the room at a perfect temperature.
Dozens of elegant envelopes were scattered across her desk, some sealed with gold wax, others half-written in her flowing script.
They were invitations, each one bearing her name and the royal sigil—announcing her 18th birthday celebration tomorrow.
And yet, despite all the grandeur around her… Charlotte's amethyst eyes held only uncertainty.
She stared at the untouched envelope before her. Her hand trembled slightly above the paper.
"Will he come...?"
The thought had haunted her for weeks now. Noah Von Augustus.
She had not seen him since that day… when he walked away from her. Her heart ached at the memory—how he looked at her, not with anger, but like a stranger. That gentle crimson gaze which once held warmth had turned distant.
She tightened her grip on the pen.
"Would he even want to see me again?"
"Your Highness," came a gentle voice.
A maid dressed in a sleek, dark uniform approached with a bow, careful to keep a respectful distance.
"Shall I assist you in organizing the invitations?"
Charlotte waved her off softly. "No. I will write this one myself."
The maid bowed. "Of course."
The room fell into silence again, save for the quiet scratching of a pen as Charlotte began to write—pouring everything she couldn't say into each stroke.
Royal Invitation –
To Noah Von Augustus,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to formally invite you to attend my 18th birthday celebration, held in the last day of this month, night at the Imperial Palace of Angelis.
It has been some time since we last spoke. I understand that things… were left unresolved between us. And perhaps I have no right to ask this of you, but I would like to see you again.
You are free to come as you are. You may also bring your companions—they are all most welcome.
There is a dance during the celebration. If you would be willing… I would like to share it with you.
- Charlotte De Angelis..
She folded the invitation delicately and sealed it with a white rose insignia—different from the golden imperial seal. A quiet sign of sincerity… and personal longing.
As she held the envelope close to her chest, her eyes softened.
"Please… come."
The maid, who had been silently watching, couldn't help but let a tiny smile escape.
"Your Highness… if I may?" she asked politely.
Charlotte raised an eyebrow. "Speak."
"If you wish to leave an impression on him… perhaps you should wear something bold. Something that would make him… forget how to breathe."
Charlotte flushed slightly, but did not scold her.
Bold?
She turned her gaze toward the massive wardrobe across the room—filled with dresses of every style and color, most untouched.
"…You may be right," she murmured, touching her lips thoughtfully. "This time… he will look at me."
The maid bowed again, hiding her smirk. "Shall I begin selecting gowns, Your Highness?"
Charlotte rose from her seat, regal and composed once more.
"No. I will choose it myself."
She turned to the mirror, determination blooming in her chest like a rose in spring.
"I won't let this chance slip away again."
"Even if he hates me, I'll face him. And maybe… just maybe, he'll see the girl I became for him."
End of Chapter.