Hidden Treasures

"Duchess Serena, do you mind if I come by again tomorrow?" The Countess asked

She seemed unruffled by the situation, but the Duchess could read her thoughts from the look in her eyes. The Countess's brilliant eyes sparkled with desire, more like longing.

When Serena looked into that gaze, she saw her old self. She put down her teacup from their table and closed her eyes for a time, realizing she had changed drastically

She then raised both corners of her lips and turned her gaze toward the Countess.

"Naturally, Countess. You are always welcome to visit us whenever you like. We've already grown close, so I'd really appreciate it if you would," Serena answered.

The two laughed and resumed their conversation. They were in the Duchess' household garden, enjoying some morning tea with pleasant conversations.

The warm glow of the sun's rays on the foliage of the trees adds to the scene's nostalgic appeal.