The Astral mansion was unusually tense that morning.
Servants rushed through the halls, polishing floors, arranging flowers, whispering nervously.
Because today—
The Crown Prince was coming.
Jenny stood in the center of the hall, hands on her hips.
"Why is he suddenly visiting our family?!"
A maid bowed. "We received a royal notice at dawn, Lady Jenny. His Highness will arrive shortly."
Jenny's eyes widened.
"Oh no… OH NO."
She grabbed June's shoulders.
"This is because of you!"
June panicked. "M-Me?!"
"Yes! If he asks about June Astral—"
June covered her face. "I'm finished… this is the end of my life…"
Outside, the sound of horses and armor echoed.
The grand doors opened.
Lucas de Dravian stepped inside, dressed in black and gold royal attire, his presence instantly freezing the air.
Cold. Elegant. Dangerous.
Everyone bowed deeply.
"Welcome, Your Highness."
Lucas's golden eyes scanned the hall calmly.
"I came to confirm something."
Jenny forced a polite smile. "May we ask what brings you here, Your Highness?"
Lucas took one slow step forward.
"The Astral family… has a daughter named June Astral, correct?"
Silence.
Jenny stiffened.
June, standing behind her in disguise as a quiet guest, almost fainted.
Jenny laughed nervously. "Ah… yes… a distant cousin. She arrived recently."
Lucas's gaze shifted.
Directly to June.
Even though her head was lowered… he knew.
"Step forward."
June froze.
Jenny whispered, "Go… or it will look suspicious."
With tiny, careful steps, June moved forward.
Lucas studied her face.
"So you are June Astral."
June bowed quickly, trying to hide her panic.
"Y-Yes, Your Highness."
He leaned slightly closer, voice low.
"We meet again."
Her heart stopped.
Did he recognize her?
But then—
Lucas straightened, expression unreadable.
"I simply wished to greet a new noble of the kingdom."
Jenny almost collapsed in relief.
June nodded rapidly. "T-Thank you for your kindness, Your Highness."
Lucas turned to leave… then paused at the door.
Without looking back, he said quietly:
"Be careful, Lady Astral."
"Lies have a way of revealing themselves."
Then he walked away.
As soon as he left—
June dropped onto the floor dramatically.
"I almost died."
Jenny sighed. "You're not allowed to attend royal parties ever again."
June raised a finger weakly.
"Agreed…"
But far away, Lucas stood by his carriage, eyes dark with curiosity.
"She's definitely hiding something."
A faint smirk appeared.
"And now I want to know what."