Two Weeks Later
Today's the day of the birthday banquet. It's going to be held at a grand scale — after all, the ducal household is rooting for me to be the next heir, Celestira thought as she sat soaking in the bath.
A lot has happened these past weeks. The Duke and Duchess divorced, and now she's drowning in debt, trying to repay every single gold coin she embezzled.
Celestira rose from the water, wrapping herself in a robe.
Alicia hasn't stepped out of her room ever since the Duchess was kicked out. I've won over most of the servants already — all it took was a smile and a polite request.
She sank into the sofa, brushing her damp hair aside.
I also made Laura my personal maid. I'll need to keep a close eye on her.
Soon, the maids gathered around and dressed her in an elegant lavender gown. Her mother's sapphire earrings — a perfect match for her eyes — completed the look.
---
I wonder if Alicia will attend? Celestira thought as she approached her sister's door and knocked gently.
Silence.
Strange, she thought, knocking again.
"GET OUT!" a voice screamed from inside.
Celestira smirked and turned away. Seems my dear sister won't witness her plan's downfall.
---
At the banquet hall's back entrance, Celestira adjusted her gown when a familiar, grating voice chimed,
"Oh my! Our dear Celesti is already fifteen! Time flies quickly, doesn't it, dear?"
"I agree," came a male's voice — calm, emotionless.
Celestira didn't even need to turn around to recognize them. Not again, she thought, rubbing her temple.
Turning, she plastered on her sweetest smile.
"Greetings to—"
To be continued...