In previous years, I had always accompanied Alexander on the autumn hunts. But this year, I was determined not to go. I planned to feign illness, hoping to excuse myself, but before long, Alexander brought the royal physician to my chambers.

He gazed at me, his eyes betraying a fleeting hint of amusement. "What ails you? You can tell me."

I had never been good at lying, and now, trapped under his scrutiny, my eyes reddened slightly. Finally, Alexander dismissed the servants, leaving just the two of us alone in the room.

"Brother, I'd like to rest," I said, retreating half a step toward the bed, pretending to be fatigued.

Seeing my resistance, Alexander seemed poised to say something but held back. "Very well, have some rest," he said before turning to leave.

As soon as he was gone, potions and tonics began to flood into my room as though they were on a schedule. Cornered, I had no choice but to announce that my health had miraculously recovered.

"If that's the case, you'll accompany me on the hunt," Alexander replied with a rare smile, the corners of his lips slightly upturned. His mood seemed noticeably improved, though I couldn't help but wonder if it was just my imagination.

"Alexander, finally, you've arrived!" A girl in crimson, expertly mounted on a horse, came to a graceful halt before the carriage.

I had just stepped down and, steadying myself, looked up to meet her gaze. I caught the flicker of surprise in her eyes.

"And this must be Celeste," she said.

The girl in front of me was none other than Princess Arabella. I moved to offer a proper curtsey, but she waved me off with a cheerful smile.

"No need for all the formalities."

Unsure of what to do, I glanced at Alexander for guidance. He smiled faintly, speaking in a gentle tone, "Let's heed the princess's words."

That smile of his felt particularly grating, and I grew even more unwilling to remain. "I don't feel well. Please excuse me," I murmured, eager to leave.

Princess Arabella laughed heartily. "Of course, do let me know if you feel unwell."

Nodding in response, I turned on my heel and hurried away, my pace quickening with each step as frustration gnawed at me. I didn't see the stranger in my path until I collided with him.

"Ow! That was rude!" The boy yelped in shock, and I found myself on the ground, too shaken to get up immediately.

He scolded me at first. "Do you not watch where you're going—" But when he saw the tears streaming down my face, his voice faltered.

"It's… it's alright. It's my fault," he stammered. "I wasn't paying attention."

Offering his arm, he said, "Here, let me help you up."

I nodded, accepting his help to stand. But a sudden noise startled me, and before I could steady myself, I stumbled straight into his arms again.

"What do you think you're doing?" came a low, cold voice from behind us. I turned to see Alexander, his face darkened with fury.