chapter nineteen

Selene had planned everything down to the smallest detail. There was no room for error. Early that morning, she sent Isolde to deliver the message to Keith's valet, ensuring the Crown Prince understood the plan. The meeting had to be controlled. Public enough to stir rumors, yet subtle enough to seem natural. Above all, it had to be convincing.

By midday, the academy library remained its usual quiet sanctuary, students scattered across the grand hall, engrossed in books or hushed conversations. Selene entered with measured steps, her expression composed, her purpose clear. She chose a seat carefully, semi-public, visible but not obvious—allowing just enough exposure for speculation to take root.

As she settled into place, she pretended to read, though her true focus remained on the shifting atmosphere around her. Whispers had already begun, students casting glances in her direction, their curiosity undeniable. She had expected this. After all, any interaction between her and Keith Everhart was bound to draw attention.

Minutes passed before the quiet hum of the library shifted. Heads turned, posture stiffened. He had arrived.

Keith moved through the room with effortless confidence, his dark hair slightly tousled, his golden eyes scanning the space before locking onto Selene. Without hesitation, he approached her table and took a seat beside her, his movements fluid, practiced.

The act began.

With deliberate care, Keith reached out, brushing a stray strand of her hair behind her ear. His fingers lingered just long enough to seem intimate but not overly affectionate. Then, as if tending to a lover, he smoothed the fabric of her sleeve, adjusting it with uncharacteristic gentleness.

Selene remained still, her expression giving away nothing. Their conversation was hushed, their words chosen for the illusion they needed to maintain.

"You're playing your part well," she murmured.

Keith didn't glance at her, his voice just as soft. "So are you."

From a distance, the exchange appeared almost tender, a quiet moment shared between two people who had once meant something to each other. The effect was immediate. Students nearby exchanged knowing glances, whispers threading through the air like wildfire.

And then, the real moment of consequence arrived.

Evangeline Ravenshire entered the library, a group of noblewomen trailing behind her. Her golden curls shimmered in the soft candlelight, her violet eyes scanning the room with practiced ease. She carried herself with her usual grace, but the instant she saw Selene and Keith together, something shifted.

For a brief moment, her steps faltered.

Though she quickly regained her composure, the tension in her posture did not go unnoticed by Selene. Across from her, Keith stiffened.

Under the table, his hand curled into a fist.

Selene leaned in slightly, her voice barely above a whisper. "Stay in character. You can explain to her later."

Keith hesitated but did not pull away. Instead, in a slow, deliberate motion, he placed his hand over hers.

It was enough.

Evangeline turned away, continuing toward the far end of the library. Her pace was measured, but the stiffness in her shoulders betrayed her.

The act had served its purpose.

Selene remained composed as she rose from her seat, her role fulfilled. The rumors would spread, the whispers would grow. Everything had gone according to plan.

Yet, as she walked away, she couldn't ignore the weight of what had just transpired. The performance had been carefully staged, but the consequences… those were still unfolding.

Keith remained seated, his fingers trailing over the spine of a book, his expression unreadable.

For a moment, he didn't move.