Warmth of a friend

Serena walked down the corridor toward Lucas's study. Since they would be attending the banquet together, it would be best if their attire matched. She knocked softly on the door, but there was no answer. Curious, she gently pushed it open and peeked inside—the room was empty.

Just as she was about to leave, Erick appeared from the hallway.

"Please wait, Your Grace. My lord is at the training grounds; he should return shortly," he said with a polite bow.

Serena considered for a moment, then nodded with a faint smile. Erick cast her a somewhat suspicious glance before disappearing quickly.

Left alone, Serena wandered slowly around the study. It was more spacious than her own study, decorated with elegance and a subtle grandeur. As she moved, her gaze fell upon a book left on a nearby table. Her eyes widened slightly—The Princess's Second Life.

She quickly covered her mouth in surprise. It was her newest novel, and Lucas... was actually reading it.

Just then, the door swung open with a soft thud, and Lucas stepped inside, wiping a bead of sweat from his forehead. He paused when he saw her.

Serena let out an awkward laugh, feeling the sweat bead at her temples. Lucas narrowed his eyes slightly, studying her.

"Why are you sweating? Is it hot in here?" he asked, genuinely puzzled.

Serena hastily waved her hand. "No, no! I'm just... like that," she said, forcing a light chuckle.

Trying to change the subject, she continued, "Actually, I came to talk about the banquet attire. Would it be alright if we matched our outfits?"

Lucas's lips curved into a gentle smile. "As you wish, Mother."

Serena, a little surprised by his easy acceptance, quickly nodded. "Well then... I'll do as I wish," she said.

But just as her hand touched the door, Lucas spoke again, his voice calm but firm.

"Mother—Lucia is coming back."

Serena paused mid-step, her hand frozen on the doorknob. Lucia—Lucas's younger sister. Serena's stepdaughter, whom she had never met. She had heard from the servants that Lucia had strongly opposed her father's remarriage, refusing to accept it even until the end. When she could do nothing more, she left the estate, claiming she would return after traveling the world.

But after hearing of her father's sudden passing, Lucia had rushed back—only to leave again on the very day of his funeral.

Remembering all of this, Serena felt a heavy concern stirring in her chest. How would Lucia react upon seeing her?

"When will she arrive?" Serena asked quietly.

Lucas replied, "I guess within two weeks... meaning after the banquet."

Serena gave a small nod. "Don't worry. I won't disturb her."

Hearing her answer, Lucas's expression fell. This wasn't what he wanted. He had hoped they could get along—not remain distant like strangers.

In the study, Serena rummaged through the newly arrived invitations. Most of them were for social gatherings she had no interest in attending. With a sigh, she set them aside one by one—until she finally spotted a familiar letter, sealed with a delicate crest.

It was from Daliah, her one and only trusted friend.

Serena unfolded the letter carefully and read:

Dear Serena,

I saw the newspaper and was concerned, but I am sure you will take care of it. If you ever need my help, please don't hesitate to reach out.

By the way, your novel, "The Princess's Second Life," is selling remarkably well! I look forward to seeing another one of your wonderful stories soon.

Take care of yourself. I hope we meet again soon.

From your friend,

Daliah

Serena smiled faintly, warmth filling her heart. Even if the world outside was cold and harsh, she still had someone who genuinely cared for her. She picked up her pen and began writing, the soft scratching sound filling the quiet study. After finishing the letter, she called out,

"Rika."

"Yes, Your Grace?" Rika answered, stepping inside.

"Send this letter to the publishing house," Serena instructed, handing over the neatly folded paper.

"Of course, Your Grace," Rika replied, bowing slightly before leaving.

Serena stretched her arms. The evening light streamed through the window, casting a golden glow across the room. The banquet was approaching, and so was Lucia's return. A new storm was quietly brewing on the horizon.