For most of her life, she had stood alone—making decisions, managing emotions, and carrying burdens without anyone to rely on. She always handled everything herself.

Though she had the sharpest mind when it came to weighing situations and making choices, dealing with the people around her sometimes left her feeling powerless.

But now, things had changed. With Vincent at her side, the weight on her shoulders felt lighter. He was like a guiding light, leading her down the right path. This was a feeling she had never known before. And now… she was utterly captivated by it.

Katelyn met Vincent’s gaze before pressing a kiss to his lips. “Vincent, I find myself falling for you more and more. What should I do?” How could she not adore a man like him?

Vincent smirked slightly, holding her even closer. “There’s nothing to be done. That’s just my charm.” His voice was steady, laced with quiet confidence.

Katelyn couldn’t hold back her laughter. Vincent was getting so full of himself. But strangely, she liked him even more this way—this was the real him.

In the past, he had always carried an air of composure, detached and unreadable. But that version of him had been too distant, too restrained.

Now, he felt genuine. For the first time, she felt like she truly had him in her life.

Vincent chuckled. “Don’t overthink things. If you’re hungry, grab something good to eat. If you’re tired, get some rest. And if you’ve got plans, follow through with them.”

Katelyn looked at him and gave a firm nod, her smile growing. Then, as if remembering something, she turned serious. “By the way, I want to wait until Ashlyn returns from the palace before we move forward with our plan. Otherwise, she might get caught up in it.”

Once Ashlyn was out of the palace, the risks to her would be minimized.

g?ν. – ?

Vincent agreed without hesitation. “Alright, we’ll go with your decision.” Katelyn nodded in satisfaction.

At that moment, Vincent’s phone suddenly rang. Glancing at the screen, he saw the caller ID—an unexpected name. It was the King. Both he and Katelyn exchanged surprised looks.

She spoke softly. “Pick it up.”

As she stepped aside, Vincent answered the call.

When the conversation ended, Katelyn studied his expression. “Did something happen?”

Ever since Vincent had broken off the engagement, the King had barely reached out to him. Yet now, he had taken the initiative to call.

Something felt off.

Vincent placed his phone down and turned to her. “Yes. He’s hosting a private banquet in five days and has invited both of us to attend.”

Katelyn’s mind immediately began analyzing the situation.

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