Elsewhere in the villa, Sophia remained largely reclusive, her days spent between long stretches in bed and distracted gaming sessions, her life seemingly directionless.
Katelyn decided to disregard Sophia, focusing instead on her own agenda.
The following day arrived with Katelyn’s planned visit to the palace to see Ryanna. Familiar with the palace from previous visits, Katelyn confidently made her way directly to Ryanna’s quarters.
Upon her arrival, Ryanna welcomed her with a beaming smile. “Katelyn, you seem even more radiant today.”
For the day’s meeting, Katelyn had chosen a simple tracksuit, considering no formal events were on the schedule. Ryanna’s praise seemed more polite than earnest.
Katelyn responded with a courteous smile, “That’s very kind of you, Princess Ryanna.”
Unperturbed by Katelyn’s reserved reaction, Ryanna continued with a welcoming gesture, indicating for Katelyn to follow her. “Please, come this way, Katelyn.”
Ryanna’s demeanor was inviting and warm. Wanting to maintain a friendly rapport, Katelyn reciprocated with a smile and followed Ryanna.
The room was just as Katelyn remembered it—elegantly decorated, exuding understated sophistication. Interestingly, the room lacked the usual presence of Annie, who typically shadowed Ryanna. This caught Katelyn off guard.
As they settled in, servants promptly served coffee and pastries, arranging them neatly before Katelyn.
Ryanna gestured toward the treats and said softly, “These pastries are crafted by a celebrated chef from Granville. Please, have some.” Katelyn pondered the reason behind Ryanna’s invitation, although she maintained a composed exterior.
Sampling a pastry, Katelyn acknowledged its quality with a nod, saying, “These are excellent. Princess Ryanna, this is very considerate of you.”
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In Yata, securing pastries of such caliber from Granville was rare, given local culinary preferences and the lack of skilled pastry chefs.
Ryanna herself took a bite, then addressed Katelyn earnestly. “I realize there’s been some tension between us due to past events, especially concerning the crown incident. I apologize for that.”
Katelyn paused, delicately dabbing her lips with a napkin, and responded, “Princess Ryanna, let’s not linger on the past. It’s behind us.” While Ryanna often offered apologies, Katelyn viewed such gestures skeptically, considering them somewhat insincere.
Ryanna’s gaze softened as she addressed Katelyn, subtly shaking her head. “Without Vincent’s influence, our relationship might have developed differently, Katelyn. Perhaps we could have even become close friends.”
There was noticeable sincerity in her eyes, suggesting a real effort to repair their relationship. Katelyn, skilled at reading intentions, could sense the truth behind Ryanna’s approach.
She smiled warmly at Ryanna and replied, “The presence of Vincent doesn’t necessarily affect our potential friendship. I’ve never let personal relationships obstruct the possibility of true friendship.” Katelyn’s response was heartfelt, though she questioned whether Ryanna truly understood her sincerity.
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