Rebecca's footsteps echoed softly through the castle corridors as she made her way to the banquet hall for the evening's casual dinner gathering with her suitors. The setting sun cast long shadows through the arched windows, painting the stone walls in hues of gold and amber. Despite the warm glow, a shiver ran down her spine.
She'd spent the afternoon buried in state papers, deliberately losing herself in the minutiae of trade agreements and agricultural reports. Anything to distract from the memory of soft lips against her own, of the feeling of being pulled onto Isabelle's lap. Now, with each step bringing her closer to the evening's gathering, those memories surged forward, impossible to ignore.
Her cheeks warmed, and she cursed inwardly at her body's betrayal. She was a princess, heir to the throne of Lumina. She'd faced down arrogant alphas and navigated political waters. So why did the thought of seeing Isabelle again make her palms sweat?
"You're being ridiculous," she muttered to herself. "It was just a kiss... my first kiss..."
Her fingers absently traced her lips, the ghost of that kiss still lingering, a sensation both thrilling and perplexing. Rebecca's heart fluttered in her chest, a mix of excitement and apprehension. The encounter with Isabelle had been so unexpected, so unconventional - especially coming from another omega. In all her preparations for courtship, she'd never imagined anything like this.
The way Isabelle had taken charge, how she'd pulled Rebecca onto her lap without hesitation. And perhaps most unsettling of all, it was how a part of her had been thrilled at the experience.
The kiss had been... pleasant. More than pleasant, if she was honest with herself. It had been unexpected, thrilling, and terrifying all at once. She had enjoyed it—the softness of Isabelle's lips, the warmth of her touch.
Yet, it wasn't quite what she had imagined from the countless romance novels she'd read. Those stories had promised an earth-shattering revelation, an instant connection that would make her world shift on its axis. Instead, while there had been warmth and a nervous flutter in her stomach, the magical, time-stopping moment she'd been led to expect had been noticeably absent.
Still, the encounter had left her in a state of disarray, her heart racing and her thoughts scattered. It had happened so quickly, catching her off guard with its suddenness. She found herself wondering what it might have been like if they'd had more time, if she'd been more prepared... But a part of her was relieved at the brevity of the encounter. She wasn't sure she could have maintained her composure if the moment had lasted any longer.
She found herself at a loss, feeling confused with her conflicting emotions... and slightly overwhelmed. Was this how it was supposed to feel? Or was there something missing? The books had never mentioned this uncertainty, this sense of being adrift in her own inexperience.
One thing she knew is that she liked the act of kissing itself. It was all so new and intriguing. But liking the kiss and liking Isabelle were two very different things, and Rebecca wasn't sure how to reconcile the two. Was she truly interested in Isabelle, or merely swept up in the novelty of it all?
She slowed her pace, no longer in a hurry to reach the banquet hall. Her fingers ghosted over her lips once more. In her daydreams, it had always been with some faceless alpha, perhaps after a romantic gesture. Instead, it had been stolen in a quiet moment with another omega, sweet and unexpected. And Isabelle's boldness, her passion, had swept away all thoughts of propriety.
"What am I doing?" she whispered to the empty hall.
Rebecca's heart raced as she recalled the feeling of being pulled onto Isabelle's lap, the intimacy of their bodies pressed together. It had been so unlike anything she'd experienced before—so different from the formal, distant interactions she'd known her whole life. The warmth, the closeness, and the sheer physicality of it all were foreign territory, a stark contrast to the cool, proper demeanor that had always surrounded her in the palace. She found herself both yearning for more of that warmth and recoiling from its unfamiliarity.
The conflicting emotions left her feeling unbalanced, as if the ground beneath her feet had suddenly shifted. Halting her steps, she leaned against the cool marble column for support. How was she supposed to face Isabelle now? To sit across from her at dinner, pretending nothing had changed? And what of the other suitors? Would they somehow sense the shift in her?
Rebecca took a shaky breath. For the first time in years, she felt truly unprepared. The rules she'd always relied on and followed seemed to waver and lose their meaning entirely. She was the crown princess, groomed to be a queen, not to be caught in the throes of a forbidden attraction. Yet here she was, her heart in a vice, trying to make sense of the tumultuous feelings stirring within her.
Her thoughts wandered unbidden to her parents, and a fresh wave of anxiety washed over her. What would her parents think if they knew? Was she betraying her parents wishes by indulging in these feelings for another omega? The very idea sent a jolt of panic through her. This wasn't how things were supposed to go. She was meant to choose an alpha, someone who could rule alongside her, someone who would meet the expectations of the court and the kingdom.
The weight of those expectations pressed down on her, threatening to suffocate the small spark of excitement that had been kindled by Isabelle's kiss. Rebecca's breath came faster, her chest tightening as she imagined the disappointment and anger in her father's eyes and the quiet resignation on her mother's face if they knew of her conflicted feelings.
"Stop it," she whispered fiercely to herself. This wasn't the time or place for such thoughts. She was moments away from entering a room full of potential suitors, all vying for her attention. She couldn't afford to panic, not right now.
Rebecca took a deep breath, forcing her racing thoughts to slow. Yet even as she tried to center herself and tamper with her rising panic, pushing away the memory of that tolen moment with Isabelle, she found it impossible to fully banish the lingering sensations. Isabelle's kiss had awakened something in her, a longing for connection she had yearned for but hadn't even realized she'd been missing.
It scared her, this newfound vulnerability. She was a princess, trained from birth to be composed and controlled. Yet here she was, trembling in a hallway, all because of a single kiss.
No, she wouldn't let this overwhelm her. She was Princess Rebecca Seldrine Aramina, heir to the throne of Lumina. She had faced far greater problems than this.
"It was just a kiss," she murmured to herself, straightening her posture. "A chance to understand Isabelle's customs, nothing more, nothing less."
That's all this was—a cultural exchange, a learning experience. It didn't have to mean anything beyond that. Rebecca smoothed her dress, her fingers tracing the familiar patterns of the fabric. This was part of the courtship process, wasn't it? Getting to know her suitors, understanding their ways. Isabelle had simply proposed a different approach.
"I'm in control," Rebecca whispered, her voice growing stronger. "This doesn't change anything."
She pushed herself away from the column and resumed her walk towards the banquet hall.
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While extravagant feasts and social gatherings will be commonplace at the month-long festival, these nightly banquets hold a certain charm. Amongst the various events, every night, a banquet was held during dinner for all the heirs attending the festival. Unlike the obligatory daily gatherings and formalities that enveloped the festival, these banquets were casual and relaxed, resembling more of a social get-together to end the night.
This was one aspect of the festival that Rebecca had insisted on, for it was a chance for the princess to get to know everyone better without expecting anything from each other. The only times where a banquet wasn't scheduled was if there was an event, whether it be because of a tournament, balls, dates, or other events that clashed with the banquet. Tonight is no exception.
As Rebecca approached the banquet hall, the low hum of conversation grew louder as she neared the doors. She took a deep breath, steeling herself. With the memory of Isabelle's kiss still fresh in her mind, she wasn't sure how to face the guests. Should she pretend nothing had happened? Or acknowledge it somehow? The etiquette books she'd studied certainly hadn't covered this situation.
But there was no use in dwelling on it now. She would simply have to face whatever was waiting for her inside. Pushing her tumultuous thoughts aside, Rebecca pushed the doors open.
She'd barely taken two steps when a voice called out, "Princess Rebecca! You simply must settle a debate."
She turned to find Prince Carter, one of her alpha suitors, grinning at her. Beside him stood Lady Emmeline, a beta heiress, looking equally amused.
"Oh?" Rebecca raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued despite herself. "And what debate might that be?"
Carter's eyes twinkled mischievously. "Lady Emmeline insists that you prefer strawberry tarts, while I maintain your favorite is lemon. The loser must surrender their dessert tonight."
Rebecca couldn't help but laugh. "And if I say neither?"
"Then we'll both go hungry, I'm afraid," Emmeline laughed.
As Rebecca opened her mouth to respond, a familiar voice chimed in from behind her. "Surely you're both mistaken. Her Highness clearly favors chocolate above all else."
Rebecca's heart leapt as Isabelle stepped into view, a teasing smile playing on her lips. Their eyes met, and for a moment, Rebecca forgot how to breathe.
Carter's voice snapped her back to reality. "Princess Isabelle! Care to make it a three-way wager?"
Isabelle's smile widened. "I wouldn't dream of depriving you both of dessert. Though perhaps Rebecca would like to judge a taste test to determine the superior treat."
The suggestion sent a jolt through Rebecca, her mind instantly recalling the sweetness of Isabelle's kiss. She felt her cheeks warm and scrambled to regain her composure.
"I... that is..." she stammered, uncharacteristically flustered.
"Oh my," Emmeline giggled, misreading Rebecca's reaction. "I do believe we've embarrassed the princess with our silly games."
Isabelle's eyes never left Rebecca's face. "My apologies, Your Highness. We meant no disrespect."
Rebecca took a deep breath, forcing a smile. "No apologies necessary. I'm merely... surprised by your enthusiasm. Though I must say, you've piqued my curiosity. Perhaps we should put this debate to rest once and for all."
Prince Carter's eyes lit up. "A taste test it is, then! I'll fetch the desserts for you ladies."
As Carter went to grab the desserts, Rebecca's gaze swept across the room, searching for familiar faces. There was Prince Thaddeus, deep in discussion with a group of alpha nobles. Princess Aurelia seemed to be having a pleasant conversation, giggling with her companions. And there, on the far side of the room, stood Princess Evangeline, captivating as always.
Her blond hair cascaded over her shoulders, and she wore a simple yet elegant gown that complemented her natural beauty. Rebecca's heart gave a peculiar lurch at the sight. She found herself wondering, unbidden, what it might be like to kiss her instead of Isabelle. The thought sent a rush of heat to her cheeks, and she quickly looked away.
In her haste to avert her gaze, her eyes unexpectedly met Isabelle's, whose attention seemed to have been solely on her. A knowing smile played at the corners of Isabelle's lips, and Rebecca felt her blush deepen.
Despite her flustered state, Rebecca gave Isabelle a small, self-conscious smile. She really hoped that Isabelle did not misinterpret her flustered state was all due to her... Even though, in a way, she was. She was the one who brought about her unbecoming thoughts about Evangeline and why she had imagined kissing Evangeline. It was all due to their earlier encounter in the sitting room. So, yes, Isabelle was definitely, at least in a small part, the reason why she was flustered right now.
"Rebecca."
The soft murmur of her name, so close to her ear, startled Rebecca out of her thoughts. She turned to find Isabelle standing even closer than before, her eyes twinkling with amusement in her warm hazel eyes.
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"You seem distracted," Isabelle said, her voice low and intimate. "You were a million miles away."
Rebecca flushed. "Well, I..." She trailed off, unable to think of a good response. "I was just seeing who came for the banquet."
Isabelle's gaze followed Rebecca's previous line of sight, landing on Evangeline across the room. Her lips twiched to a slight frown before quirking back up to a smile. "I see. And was your observation... satisfactory?"
Rebecca caught the change in Isabelle's expression, noting the subtle shift in her tone. There was an edge there, barely perceptible but unmistakable.
"I... well," Rebecca stammered, trying to find the right words. "I was just taking in the room, that's all."
Isabelle leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a near whisper. "The room? Or perhaps one particular princess?"
The princess's breath caught in her throat at Isabelle's proximity. "Isabelle, I—"
But Isabelle cut her off, sighing. "Sorry. I shouldn't have said that. It's not my place to question where your attention wanders." She paused, her eyes flickering briefly towards Evangeline before returning to Rebecca. "I just... I suppose I hoped our earlier conversation might have left a more lasting impression."
Isabelle's attempt to mask her jealousy was evident, but the slight tension in her voice betrayed her true feelings. She continued, forcing a lighthearted tone, "But of course, you're free to spend time with everyone. That's what this festival is about, isn't it? Getting to know all your potential... partners."
Rebecca, caught off guard by Isabelle's honesty, felt a mix of guilt and something akin to pleasure at the other princess's obvious interest. "Isabelle, I assure you, our conversation was very impactful. I was just—"
"No, please," Isabelle interjected, holding up a hand. "You don't need to explain yourself to me. We're all here to explore our options, after all." She let out a small, self-deprecating laugh. "I'm acting rather foolish, aren't I? Especially considering how new... whatever this is between us."
Rebecca opened her mouth to respond, but Isabelle continued, her voice softer now, "I just want you to know that while I may have my moments of... let's call it overeagerness, I respect your freedom to connect with others. I hope that doesn't change anything between us."
The tone in Isabelle's voice made Rebecca's heart ache. She reached out, gently touching Isabelle's arm. "Of course it doesn't. Isabelle, I'm still figuring out my feelings, but your feelings are important to me. I'm flattered by your interest and enjoy your company immensely."
Isabelle's eyes softened at Rebecca's words, the tension in her shoulders visibly easing. She placed her hand over Rebecca's, still resting on her arm, and gave it a squeeze before letting go. "I'm sorry, " Isabelle said. "And I apologize for my moment of weakness. It's... not like me to let jealousy get the better of me." Than a playful smile spread across her face. "Soooo, if you don't mind me asking, what were you thinking about earlier? You didn't even hear me call out your name."
"Nothing important," Rebecca hastily replied. She couldn't exactly admit she was thinking about Isabelle and how to face her. Nor can she where her thoughts had gone with the sight of Evangeline.
Isabelle raised an eyebrow and brought her face closer to Rebecca's. "Nothing important? Your blush suggests otherwise, Princess."
Rebecca felt her face grow even warmer. Isabelle's perceptiveness was both impressive and disconcerting. And the slight scent of jasmine and vanilla was starting to make her feel a bit lightheaded. She found herself both wanting to step back and lean in closer at the same time. "I... It's just the heat in here," she lied, knowing how unconvincing she sounded.
Isabelle's eyes glinted with amusement, a knowing smile playing on her lips. She took another small step forward, closing the remaining distance between them. Then, leaning in, she dropped her voice to a whisper. "Is that so? Perhaps we should step out for some fresh air after Carter comes back with the dessert. It might help cool that lovely blush of yours."
"I... that might not be a good idea," Rebecca finally spoke. "I just barely arrived to dinner. I dare not take my leave when I've only just made my entrance."
Isabelle's lips cuved into a small, sly smile, her eyes never leaving Rebecca's. "Not if we're quick about it. I'd hate for you to be uncomfortable at your own banquet."
Without waiting for a response, Isabelle reached out and gently took Rebecca's hand in her own. Her skin was soft and warm, and the gentle touch sent a thrill up Rebecca's spine.
"Isabelle, wait," she protested, her voice coming out far breathier than intended. Her eyes darted around the room to see if anyone had noticed. "The other's might notice our absence."
Isabelle's grip on her hand softened, but she didn't let go. Instead, she leaned in once more, her lips nearly brushing Rebecca's ear. "Let them notice. Isn't that the point of this festival? To court and be courted?"
Rebecca felt a shiver run down her spine at Isabelle's words and proximity. She was right, of course. This was a courtship festival, and such interactions were expected. Yet Rebecca couldn't shake the feeling that she was somehow betraying... someone. Her gaze unconsciously drifted across the room, seeking out Evangeline.
The princess was still engrossed in conversation, but for a brief moment, her eyes met Rebecca's. There was a flicker of something—curiosity? concern?—in Evangeline's expression before her gaze shifted to Isabelle, noting their proximity with a subtle arch of her eyebrow.
Rebecca felt her breath catch in her throat. The weight of Evangeline's gaze, even from across the room, seemed to ground her in the moment, pulling her back from the dizzying effect of Isabelle's nearness. It was a stark reminder of the complexity of her situation—the pull she felt towards both princesses, each in their own unique way. The realization settled over her like a cool breeze, clearing some of the fog from her mind.
She turned back to Isabelle, suddenly hyper-aware of their closeness, of Isabelle's hand still holding hers. "I... I think I should stay," Rebecca said softly, gently extracting her hand from Isabelle's grasp. "But thank you for your concern."
Isabelle's smile faltered for just a moment before returning, though it didn't quite reach her eyes this time. "Of course, Princess. I understand." She took a small step back, giving Rebecca some space. "Perhaps... another time?"
Rebecca nodded, offering a small smile of her own. "Yes, I'd like that."
As the tension between Rebecca and Isabelle eased, Lady Emmeline, who had been standing nearby, cleared her throat gently. Rebecca suddenly remembered her presence and felt a pang of guilt for neglecting her.
"Emmeline," Rebecca said, turning to face her. "I apologize for my rudeness. How are you finding the evening so far?"
Emmeline's lips curled into a polite smile. "No need to apologize, Rebecca. The evening has been quite... revealing, if a bit surprising." Her gaze flickered briefly between Rebecca and Isabelle before settling back on the princess. "It seems everyone is quite eager to make an impression."
Rebecca felt her cheeks warm slightly at Emmeline's implying tone. "Yes, it does seem that way, doesn't it? Everyone's trying to put their best foot forward."
Emmeline nodded, a knowing glint in her eye. "Indeed. Though some seem to be putting both feet forward, if you catch my meaning."
Before Rebecca could respond, Prince Carter's voice cut through their conversation. "Ladies, I hate to interrupt, but I believe we still have a pressing matter to attend to." He gestured dramatically towards the dessert tray. "The fate of our evening's sweets hangs in the balance!"
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"I'd recommend the rosé. It's quite delightful."
Rebecca turned, coming face to face with Princess Evangeline. The blonde's sudden proximity sent a rush of warmth to Rebecca's cheeks.
"Oh, um, thank you," Rebecca stammered, her fingers fumbling as she switched glasses. "I'm not very well-versed in wines, I'm afraid."
Evangeline's lips curved into a smile. 'I, myself, am not either. But I do like a good rosé."
Rebecca took a sip of the rosé, partly to savor the taste and partly to hide her deepening blush. "It's lovely," she managed, her voice barely above a whisper.
"Not unlike the company," Evangeline replied, her gaze steady on Rebecca.
Rebecca felt her breath catch in her throat. Was Evangeline flirting with her? "I... thank you," she said, inwardly cringing at her lack of eloquence. "You look beautiful tonight, Evangeline."
Evangeline's eyes danced with amusement. "Thank you. You look quite beautiful as well."
A shy smile spread across her face, and she had to turn away. "How are you faring the banquet? We haven't had much chance to talk this evening."
"Indeed, we haven't. Though I must say, you've seemed quite occupied." Evangeline leaned in slightly, lowering her voice. "I couldn't help but notice your little dessert tasting earlier. Quite the popular princess, aren't you?"
Rebecca's blush deepened. "Oh, that was just... I mean, it wasn't..."
"Relax," Evangeline chuckled, placing a reassuring hand on Rebecca's arm. The touch sent a shiver through her. "I'm only teasing. Though I must admit, I'm a little hurt I wasn't invited to participate."
"You are?" Rebecca asked, her voice soft and uncertain, surprised by the admission. "I... I didn't think you'd be interested. And you seemed occupied."
Evangeline's expression softened, a mix of amusement and something warmer in her eyes. "And why wouldn't I be? You're charming, intelligent, and," she paused, her gaze briefly dropping to Rebecca's lips before meeting her eyes again, "quite captivating."
Rebecca felt a flutter in her stomach at Evangeline's words and the intensity of her gaze. She took another sip of her wine, trying to hide her feelings.
"I... thank you," she said, her voice steadier now. "I find you quite captivating as well, Evangeline." The admission sent a thrill through her, both exciting and terrifying in its honesty.
Evangeline's smile widened, a pleased look crossing her features. Then, her expression shifted slightly, and with a tilt of her head, she suddenly asked, "I couldn't help but notice you and Princess Isabelle seemed quite... close earlier. You two seemed to be having quite the intense conversation."
The mention of Isabelle caught Rebecca off guard, and she felt her heart rate quicken. "Oh, you saw that? But um, yes. Isabelle is... she's very nice."
Evangeline raised an eyebrow. "Just nice? Come now, Rebecca. I think we both know there's more to it than that." Her tone was light, but there was a hint of something else beneath it – curiosity? Or perhaps a challenge?
Rebecca fumbled for words, unsure how to respond. Evangeline watched her with patient amusement, seemingly content to let her struggle.
Finally, Rebecca spoke. "Isabelle is... intriguing. But so are you, Evangeline. So are many of the people here. Isabelle is... she's very forward. But kind. She has been sharing some of her kingdom's customs with me. It's been quite educational."
"Forward, is she? And how do you feel about that, Rebecca?"
The question caught Rebecca off guard. She fumbled for words, unsure how to respond. "I... it's flattering, I suppose. But also a bit overwhelming at times."
Evangeline to a step closer to Rebecca, her voice lowering slightly. "Overwhelming, you say? Yet you seem to welcome it, at least to some degree. Tell me, Rebecca, I hope you don't find all forwardness overwhelming."
The implication in Evangeline's words sent a rush of heat through Rebecca's body. "N-no, not all," she stammered. "In fact, sometimes it can be quite... appealing."
A slow smile spread across Evangeline's face. "Is that so?" She leaned in closer, her voice dropping to a near whisper. "Then perhaps you wouldn't mind if I told you how utterly breathtaking you look tonight, Rebecca? How the mere sight of you makes my heart race?"
Rebecca felt as if all the air had been sucked from her lungs. Evangeline's words, combined with her proximity, sent her omega instincts into overdrive. She could feel her cheeks burning, her pulse pounding in her ears.
"Evangeline, I..." She began, but found herself at a loss for words.
Evangeline's expression softened, a hint of concern entering her eyes. "Too much?" She asked gently. "I apologize if I've made you uncomfortable, Rebecca. That wasn't my intention."
Rebecca shook her head quickly. "No, not uncomfortable. Just... overwhelmed. In a good way," she added hastily. "You have quite an effect on me, Evangeline."
The admission seemed to please Evangeline. Her smile widened, a look of genuine affection in her eyes. "As you do on me, Rebecca. I find myself constantly thinking of you and how I want our date to be."
The reminder of their future date sent a thrill of anticipation through Rebecca. "I'm looking forward to it as well," she said softly. "Very much so."
Evangeline's gaze intensified, and she took a small step closer, making their bodies nearly touch. The air between them seemed to crackle with unspoken tension. Rebecca found herself holding her breath, caught between the desire to close the distance and the instinct to maintain propriety.
"I don't want to make you uncomfortable in any way, Rebecca. And I want your time with me to be pleasant—well, more than pleasant, actually. So I must ask you this. Do you prefer a more... direct approach in courtship?"
Rebecca felt her cheeks warm at the question. "I... I'm not sure," she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper. "This is all so new to me. I've never been in a situation like this before."
Evangeline nodded, a small smile playing at her lips. "Of course. It can be quite a lot, can't it? But surely you must have some preference. After all, you've experienced both Isabelle's forwardness and..." she paused, her gaze intensifying, "other approaches."
Rebecca's heart raced, sensing the unspoken comparison Evangeline was making. "I suppose I appreciate honesty," she said carefully. "But there's also something to be said for... subtlety."
"Subtlety, indeed," Evangeline murmured, her fingers lightly brushing Rebecca's arm as she reached for her own glass of wine. The touch sent a shiver through Rebecca. "And what about romance, Rebecca? Does that intrigue you as well?"
Rebecca swallowed hard, feeling caught between Evangeline's gaze and her own swirling emotions. "I... yes, I think it does," she sighed out wistfully. "I've always dreamed of having a partner who'd be there for me... who'd know how to make me feel... special."
Evangeline's smile grew softer, her eyes never leaving Rebecca's. "Then I shall strive to be that partner," she promised. "To show you the kind of romance that sweeps you off your feet without ever making you feel pressured or overwhelmed." She reached out and gently took Rebecca's free hand in her own.
Rebecca felt a warmth spread through her chest, and she nodded, unable to find the words to express the hope and excitement that bubbled within her. Evangeline's thumb began to stroke the back of her hand, sending waves of comfort and reassurance.
"But for now," Evangeline continued, her voice dropping to a whisper, "Let's simply enjoy the evening. Tell me, Rebecca, what else makes your heart flutter? I find myself wanting to know everything about you." She leaned in slightly, her breath warm against Rebecca's ear as she added, "And I must admit, being this close to you is making it difficult to focus on anything else."
Just then, a loud laugh from nearby broke the spell. Rebecca startled, suddenly remembering where they were. She glanced around, noticing a few curious looks from other guests.
Evangeline seemed to sense her discomfort. With a reassuring squeeze of her hand, she released it and took a small, innocuous step back. "I believe I've monopolized enough of your time for the moment. We wouldn't want the others to get jealous, would we?" She winked. "Perhaps you'd like to join me in greeting some of the other guests? I spotted Lady Clarissa and Lord Leon earlier, and I'm sure they'd be delighted to meet you."
"That sounds lovely," Rebecca replied with a small smile. "I'd be honored to meet your friends."
As they began to move towards the other side of the room, Evangeline leaned in once more, her voice low and meant only for Rebecca's ears. "Don't worry about Lady Clarissa and Lord Leon. They're quite friendly and down-to-earth, despite their titles. Just be your charming self, and they'll adore you."
The thought of charming anyone was almost comical to Rebecca, but she nodded, trying to believe in the confidence Evangeline seemed to have in her. She looked up at Evangeline, a shy, self-deprecating smile spreading across her face. "I'm not so sure if I'm charming, but thank you," she said softly back.
Evangeline sent her a questioning gaze, and for a moment, it seemed as if she might say something more. Instead, she simply nodded, a warmth in her gaze that made Rebecca's heart skip a beat.
The rest of the evening passed in a blur. To Rebecca's surprise, she found herself quickly at ease with Lady Clarissa and Lord Leon. Their easy nature and genuine interest in her made conversation flow naturally, and she soon became a part of their group.
When the banquet finally wound down, Rebecca felt a twinge of regret that the evening was ending. She had made new friends, enjoyed stimulating conversation, and most importantly, shared those precious moments with Evangeline. As she bid goodnight to everyone, she caught Evangeline's eye across the room. The princess offered a warm smile that seemed to hold a promise of more to come.