Chapter 33 — The Silver Thread Between Us

The academy library was nearly empty at dusk—its high windows casting golden rays across the worn spines of old tomes and the scent of aged parchment filling the silence.

Evelyne sat by the window, a book opened on her lap, but she wasn't reading.

Across from her, Elisse scribbled notes furiously, tongue poking out in concentration. Her long chestnut hair was tucked behind one ear, and her sleeves were rolled up to her elbows.

"You can slow down," Evelyne murmured. "The test isn't until next week."

Elisse blinked, then giggled softly. "I know, but I don't want to drag you down. You're… well, you're brilliant."

"I'm not helping you to feel flattered," Evelyne said without heat.

But something in her chest softened.

No one had ever looked at her with that kind of innocent admiration in her first life. Not without expecting something in return.

"I'm glad we're roommates," Elisse said quietly. "You're kinder than the rumors said."

Evelyne looked away, toward the window.

Kind?

If only you knew.

She had once ordered the execution of rebels. Silenced her own cousin. Poisoned a rival duchess for political gain.

No, Evelyne Ardent was no saint. But this time, perhaps… she could be something else.

The door creaked open.

Reinhardt Velleius stepped in, ignoring the startled librarian's warning about "quiet hours." His green eyes scanned the room until they landed on Evelyne.

She raised an eyebrow.

"You again?"

Rein grinned. "It seems fate has bad timing. Every time I need a book, you're already here."

She didn't reply. Elisse looked between them curiously.

He walked closer, stopping beside their table. "I came to ask you something."

"I'm not interested," Evelyne said flatly.

"You haven't heard the question."

"You're not subtle."

He laughed. "True. But I'll ask anyway."

He leaned forward slightly, his tone suddenly more serious.

"Why did you protect that commoner girl last year?"

Evelyne's fingers froze on the page.

"I don't recall needing to justify my actions," she said after a beat.

Rein studied her in silence. Then smiled.

"You're more interesting than any book in this place."

He turned to leave. "I'll see you around, Lady Empress."

Elisse stared at Evelyne after he left. "He… called you Empress?"

Evelyne exhaled slowly. "Ignore him."

But deep inside, the nickname echoed like a ghost—one from a lifetime she'd buried beneath ashes.

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