Vincent’s tone cut through the air like a blade of ice. His demeanor suggested he might hold the King personally responsible for this situation. After all, a guest falling ill from food served at such a prestigious banquet was no trivial matter.
The King visibly faltered—Vincent’s anger was unmistakable. His eyes darkened.
But before the King could gather his thoughts, Annie interjected, “If you claim she’s suffering from stomach discomfort and remains in the restroom, then at least request her presence so we can all verify. Should she truly be unwell, we’ll summon a doctor immediately!” She pressed on relentlessly, demanding Katelyn’s immediate appearance. Ryanna stood in contemplative silence, clearly awaiting Katelyn’s arrival as well.
And now, Lois had become virtually invisible to those present. She yearned to deflect all blame onto Katelyn’s shoulders.
Vincent’s glacial gaze cut toward Annie. “Fine, call the doctor. I’ll retrieve her myself. But I expect a proper settlement from you for this accusation.”
That penetrating look seemed to pierce straight through Annie’s heart. He then said nothing more, turning abruptly and striding purposefully toward the restroom.
The King watched Vincent’s retreating figure, his mind churning with uncertainty. Could this affair truly have no connection to Katelyn? The King instinctively glanced at Ryanna, and in that brief exchange of looks, they wordlessly understood each other’s thoughts.
Others in attendance also quietly debated whether Katelyn might be implicated in this situation. After all, judging by Vincent’s unwavering demeanor, it seemed unlikely he was fabricating a story. And it would be utterly foolish to orchestrate such a scheme at an event of this caliber. How could the woman who had captured Vincent’s heart be so reckless?
Just as speculation rippled through the gathering, a sudden cry shattered the tension.
“Fire!”
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Everyone’s hearts seized with alarm.
Both the King’s and Ryanna’s expressions hardened. A fire in the palace was no trivial matter.
However, the soldier, halfway to his destination, suddenly froze in place. He tilted his head, listening intently to instructions through his earpiece. In the next breath, the color drained from his face.
The crowd fixed their collective gaze upon him. He trembled as he bowed deeply to the King. “I apologize. They report it was merely a surveillance mistake.”
The King’s countenance darkened instantly. He exuded an intimidating presence.
How could such a blunder occur before the assembled guests? What would become of the royal family’s standing if word of this spread? With so many witnesses present, the King, despite his displeasure, could only fix the soldier with an icy stare and command, “Get out!” The soldier dared not linger a moment longer, fearing for his very life.
Under everyone’s gaze, Vincent, who had just departed, returned, supporting Katelyn.
Katelyn’s complexion was ashen. Despite her carefully applied makeup, weakness was evident in every line of her face—the very evidence that her absence in the restroom had been notably prolonged.
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