Ara’s POV
The sun had just begun to dip behind the palace walls, casting a golden hue across the sky. A soft knock on the door pulled me from my thoughts.
“Lady Ara, the Prince has requested your presence,” the maid said with a warm smile. “He’s waiting in the gardens.”
I nodded, smoothing down the pale floral dress they had picked for me—soft ivory with blooming rose patterns that danced with every step I took. The pendant Damon gave me was around my neck, dazzling under the evening sky. The evening was painted in enchantment.
The maid led me down a quiet stone path, past tall hedges and glowing lanterns. With each step, the buzz in my chest grew louder—an odd mix of excitement and heartbreak.
And then… I saw it.
The greenhouse, tucked in the corner of the palace gardens, had been t
