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Amaranthe watched as Cheska smiled carefreely as they entered her room, settling comfortably in the lavish room gifted by King Ernest.
"Oh, cookies..." The woman cheered.
Kalis entered, carrying a tray of desserts. She eyed Cheska with faint concern, but her lady remained cheerful, waving her off with a formal yet dismissive tone. "You may leave us, Kalis."
The maid hesitated before bowing and retreating, leaving the two alone.
Silence settled between them, strange and heavy.
Cheska, still smiling, reached for a cookie, taking the whole plate as if savoring the moment. But Ianthe, watching her closely, felt unease creep up her spine.
"You..." Ianthe hesitated.
"Hm?" Cheska tilted her head.
Despite her casual response, her focus remained on the cookie, as though it was the most important thing in the room.
Ianthe's fingers clenched around the fabric of her dress. "You're not Cheska."