Chapter 36: A Dangerous Invitation

Verbena didn't leave the study right away. Her legs felt weak, her mind spinning like a broken music box.

Theodore's words echoed in her ears — "That makes you my greatest weakness."

What was that supposed to mean? Was he actually starting to… care?

"No!" She slapped her cheeks lightly, trying to snap herself out of it. This was the villain, the cruel duke who supposedly killed countless enemies without blinking. She couldn't fall for him — not seriously.

But her heart had already started to betray her.

Before she could dwell on that terrifying thought, the door creaked open again — this time, it was the butler.

"My lady, a letter has arrived for you."

"For me?"

She took the envelope, her fingers tracing the royal crest stamped on the seal. The Crown Prince's emblem.

Her stomach twisted. Why would Lance, her supposed 'first love' in this life, send her a letter now?

She tore it open and scanned the contents.

"Duchess Hellgrave,

You are cordially invited to attend the upcoming Spring Banquet, hosted at the Royal Palace. Your presence is essential, and your esteemed husband's attendance is also requested.

With warm regards,

Crown Prince Lance Auther Kalix."

Verbena's mind exploded with questions. This banquet — was this what Theodore's secret letters were about? And why was Lance suddenly acting so formal when they had once been much closer?

And the most confusing part — Theodore didn't even mention this to me.

This banquet is a trap, isn't it?

Verbena's lips curled into a sly smile.

"Perfect."

If the palace wanted her there, she would go — but on her terms. If Theodore wanted to keep his secrets, she would pry them open, one by one. If Lance had something planned, she would be ready.

And if her villain husband tried to charm her again… well, she'd cross that bridge when her heart stopped doing somersaults every time he looked at her.

---

Later that evening, at dinner, she unfolded the letter dramatically, placing it right beside Theodore's wine glass.

"A letter from the Crown Prince," she said sweetly. "Did you know about this?"

Theodore, who had been calmly cutting his steak, barely raised an eyebrow. "Of course."

Verbena tapped her foot under the table. "And you weren't going to tell me?"

"You'd find out eventually." He took a sip of wine, utterly unbothered. "Besides, you were busy sneaking into my study."

Her face flushed crimson. "That was— I was just cleaning!"

"Of course." He smirked. "Cleaning through my personal letters, I assume?"

Verbena nearly stabbed her fork into the table. "That's not the point! The point is— what exactly is this banquet about? Why is my presence 'essential'?"

Theodore set his glass down and leaned back, watching her like a hunter observing prey.

"Because you're my wife, Verbena. And because some people at the palace are very interested in you."

Her stomach flipped. "Interested in me… why?"

He didn't answer right away. Instead, he stood, walking around the table until he stood behind her chair. His hands rested on her shoulders, warm and heavy.

"Be careful at the banquet," he murmured close to her ear. "You have no idea how dangerous that place is."

His breath sent shivers down her spine, but Verbena clenched her fists.

What are you hiding from me, Theodore Hellgrave?

"Fine," she said, forcing a smile. "I'll be careful. But only if you dance with me at the banquet."

Theodore paused, visibly caught off guard. "Dance?"

"You're my husband." She looked up at him, batting her lashes dramatically. "Surely you wouldn't leave your dear wife unattended at such an important event."

For a heartbeat, his gaze softened. Then his usual smirk returned. "Very well, my troublesome little wife. I'll dance with you."

Verbena wasn't sure if she had just won a battle or walked straight into a trap.

But one thing was certain — the Spring Banquet would change everything.

---

End of chapter