This princess will not back down

chapter 22

"Were the twins the same?" Ser asked, her thoughts turning to the enigmatic pair who had crossed their paths in such unexpected ways.

Eva shook her head, a wistful smile playing at her lips. "No," she replied. "They were a complete coincidence."

As the gentle knock signaled lunchtime, Eva and Seraphina rose from their seats, ready to indulge in a meal. However, Eva's mind drifted to the practicalities of their situation. With Elyra being the only one capable of preparing something edible and Eldan already committed to his role as a butler, the need for a chef became apparent.

"Possibly our first recruitment should be a chef," Eva thought.

__________________________________________

As the music swirled through the opulent halls of the Duchy of Bellridge, the clinking of glasses filled the air, setting the scene for a grand celebration. Amidst the lively atmosphere, all eyes were drawn to a radiant young girl with blonde hair and striking green eyes. She stood poised at the center of attention, preparing for her first dance with the Duke, her father.

The Duchess, beaming with pride, watched from the sidelines, her heart swelling with joy as her daughter stepped into adulthood. Yet, amidst the jubilation, the girl's gaze betrayed an air of anticipation, eagerly awaiting someone's arrival.

Suddenly, a hush fell over the crowd as the announcer declared, "Here comes His Highness, Crown Prince Lysander xavier Elesmore." Prince Lysander, tall and regal, made his entrance, drawing murmurs of admiration from the guests.

The Duchess approached him with a warm smile, "Your Highness, what a delight to have you join us tonight."

Prince lysander returned the smile, his eyes finding the young girl's amidst the throng of guests. "The pleasure is mine, Duchess."

"Congratulations, Lady Claudia, on your coming of age and the blessing of the fairy," the Crown Prince remarked with a warm smile, his voice carrying a regal yet friendly.

Claudia's cheeks flushed with a delicate pink at the Crown Prince's kind words, and she dipped into a graceful curtsy. "Thank you, Your Highness," she replied, her voice soft but filled with genuine appreciation. "It is an honor to receive your congratulations on this special day."

The Crown Prince inclined his head in acknowledgment. "Indeed, it is a joyous occasion," he replied, his tone warm and congenial. "I trust the festivities will be a fitting celebration of your coming of age."

Claudia's heart swelled with pride at the Crown Prince's words, and she offered him a grateful smile. "I am certain they will be, Your Highness," she said with confidence. "Your presence here only adds to the splendor of the evening."

With a nod of satisfaction, the Crown Prince returned Claudia's smile before excusing himself to attend to his other duties. Claudia watched him go with a sense of gratitude and admiration, feeling truly blessed to have received his congratulations on such a momentous occasion.

As the final guest arrived, the anticipation in the room reached its peak. The party was about to begin in earnest. Claudia, shared a tender moment with her father as they stepped onto the dance floor. The soft strains of music enveloped them, casting a magical spell over the room.

Claudia gazed up at her father, her eyes shimmering with affection and gratitude. "Thank you for this dance, Father," she whispered, her voice barely audible over the music.

The Duke smiled down at his daughter, a swell of pride filling his heart. "My dear Claudia, tonight is your night to shine. I am honored to share this moment with you."

As they glided across the floor, father and daughter moved in perfect harmony, their bond palpable to all who watched. The guests looked on with admiration, their hearts warmed by the sight of such familial love and unity.