Katelyn hesitated briefly. “Princess Ryanna?”

The woman responded with a gentle smile, her elegance intact. Noticing the ribbons in Katelyn’s hand, Ryanna offered her assistance promptly. “Miss Bailey, may I assist you with those?”

Katelyn’s eyes betrayed a moment of hesitation. The strict protocols of the royal family meant her current attire could be deemed inappropriate. With no other option, she passed the ribbons to Ryanna. “Thank you.”

Ryanna returned the gesture with a soft smile. “You’re welcome.”

This traditional attire required a specific method of wearing: the ribbon was to be draped across the shoulder and secured at the waist. Katelyn, unfamiliar with the tradition, watched as Ryanna skillfully tied the bow, stirring a mix of emotions within her.

Aware of the situation between Katelyn and Vincent, Ryanna still offered her help without reservation. They were kind of rivals in love, yet capable of peaceful coexistence? This scenario was indeed rare.

Grateful for the help, Katelyn expressed her thanks. “I appreciate this, Princess Ryanna. Without your guidance, I would have struggled.”

Ryanna laughed lightly. “Please, there’s no need for formality. This palace is my home. Should you find yourself in any difficulty, do not hesitate to seek me out. And truly, I owe you thanks for being there for Vincent during my absence.”

Katelyn’s gaze shifted subtly at Ryanna’s words. They said the eyes were the windows to the soul, unable to hide true emotions even behind a veiled face. While Ryanna’s affection for Vincent was apparent, her eyes radiated genuine gratitude, not malice.

“You misunderstand, Princess,” Katelyn clarified calmly. “Our relationship is strictly professional.”

Ryanna’s smile widened, her noble features accentuated. “There’s no need for such excuses. I am fully aware of your history with Vincent. My health has limited my presence by his side, which is why your support means so much.”

Visit gal?vls.com for updates

Katelyn’s expression tightened slightly.

Ryanna’s tone was gracious, yet it carried an underlying caution, as if she were subtly staking her claim. Katelyn’s unease deepened. She and Vincent had maintained a purely platonic relationship.

With a smile, Ryanna continued, “Vincent is quite the catch, isn’t he? And you’re always brilliant. Your designs are truly remarkable, I must say.”

For a moment, Katelyn was at a loss for words. Ryanna’s gaze was earnest, her tone gentle but with a trace of something else. This meeting had revealed a side of Ryanna that positioned her as perhaps Katelyn’s most formidable rival yet.

Collecting her thoughts, Katelyn responded with a slight smile, “Thank you for your kind words. I should return to the banquet. They’re waiting for me.”

“I’ll walk with you,” Ryanna offered, catching up to match Katelyn’s stride—an offer that wasn’t easily declined.

They had a bit of a walk ahead to the dining hall. The air between them was cordial, yet an underlying oddity lingered. Ryanna appeared relaxed, in contrast to Katelyn’s discomfort.

“You might not be aware of our engagement,” Ryanna shared as they walked. “It started as a strategic alliance, but when I first saw Vincent, it was love at first sight. I even sought my father’s blessing immediately.” Katelyn listened without interruption, noticing the joy in Ryanna’s expression.

“My father believed we were meant to be. ‘A perfect match,’ he said. Vincent’s kindness was always a comfort to me, despite the miles between us. He never failed to send gifts that brightened my days.”

Katelyn’s frown deepened, finding it difficult to reconcile this sentimental side of Vincent with his usual reserved demeanor. To her, Vincent’s typical response to affection would be more impulsive—swift actions following heartfelt admissions, perhaps even a spontaneous flight to Yata when he missed her. No matter his schedule, Vincent always made time for those he truly cared about.

“His messages were a beacon for me during my illness,” Ryanna continued, pulling out her phone to show Katelyn a text.

Surprise flickered across Katelyn’s face as she read the message.

.

.

.