Chapter 28: Rumors and Retorts
The imperial banquet continued in full swing, the night growing livelier as nobles mingled and the orchestra played enchanting melodies. Tiara, however, was keenly aware of the whispers that seemed to follow her and Chris wherever they went.
"She's practically a princess already."
"Have you heard? The first prince seems quite taken with her."
"They've been secretly engaged for months, I'm sure of it!"
Tiara resisted the urge to roll her eyes. "Chris," she said, leaning closer so only he could hear, "if I hear one more rumor about us being engaged, I might just scream."
Chris smirked. "And here I thought you enjoyed the attention."
Tiara arched an eyebrow. "Do I look like I enjoy this circus?"
Chris tilted his head as if considering. "You do wear the role of a future empress quite well."
"Keep talking, and I might stab you with my hairpin," Tiara deadpanned, earning a quiet laugh from Chris.
Lilith's Failed Charm Offensive
Across the room, Lilith watched the pair with barely concealed disdain. Her grip tightened on her wine glass as she turned to her ever-present entourage of admirers.
"Poor Lady Tiara," she said with a theatrical sigh. "She's clearly overwhelmed by the rumors. I can only imagine how difficult it must be for someone of her... modest social standing."
One of the ladies gasped. "But isn't she the duke's daughter?"
Lilith's smile faltered. "Well, yes, but you know how these things are. Being a duke's daughter doesn't guarantee grace or charm."
Tiara, who had overheard the comment, decided she'd had enough. She excused herself from Chris and approached Lilith, her steps measured and deliberate.
"Lady Lilith," Tiara said sweetly, her smile razor-sharp, "you're absolutely right. Grace and charm aren't guaranteedâthey're earned. But then, some people are naturally gifted, while others..." She trailed off, letting the implication hang in the air.
Lilith's face turned an impressive shade of red. "I-I didn't meanâ"
"Oh, don't worry," Tiara continued, her tone mockingly kind. "It must be exhausting, trying so hard all the time. You're very... persistent."
The surrounding nobles stifled laughter, and Lilith could do nothing but nod stiffly as Tiara walked away, satisfaction gleaming in her eyes.
Alistair's Misstep
Meanwhile, Alistair had been biding his time, waiting for the perfect moment to approach Tiara. When he finally saw her alone near the refreshment table, he seized the opportunity.
"Lady Tiara," he began, his voice smooth and confident. "You've grown even more beautiful since the last time I saw you."
Tiara turned, her polite smile fading the moment she realized who it was. "Prince Alistair. To what do I owe the... displeasure?"
Alistair chuckled, ignoring the jab. "You wound me. I only wanted to congratulate you on your, shall we say, rise in status?"
"Ah, yes," Tiara replied, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "Nothing says 'status' like being gossiped about relentlessly."
"Surely you don't mind," Alistair said, stepping closer. "After all, you're practically royalty now."
Tiara took a step back, her expression turning icy. "If I were royalty, I'd ensure a stricter vetting process for palace guests. Some people just don't know their place."
The jab hit its mark, and Alistair's charming facade cracked for a moment. "Careful, Lady Tiara," he said, his tone darker now. "You wouldn't want to make an enemy out of me."
Tiara tilted her head, feigning thoughtfulness. "An enemy? No, I prefer to think of you as a mild inconvenienceâlike a mosquito."
Alistair's jaw tightened, but before he could respond, Chris appeared at Tiara's side.
"Alistair," Chris said, his voice cold and authoritative, "is there a reason you're pestering my dance partner?"
"Of course not, Brother," Alistair replied, his smile returning. "I was merely complimenting her."
"Then you're done here," Chris said firmly, his gaze unwavering.
Alistair gave a mock bow and retreated, his mind already racing with schemes to regain the upper hand.
Chris and Tiara: Round Two
As Chris led Tiara back to the dance floor, she couldn't help but smirk. "You know, you're surprisingly good at playing the protective prince."
Chris raised an eyebrow. "Surprisingly?"
"Well," Tiara said, feigning nonchalance, "I didn't peg you as the chivalrous type. More like the 'let's watch the chaos unfold' type."
Chris laughed softly. "I have my moments. Besides, I can't let Alistair think he can corner you without consequences."
"Corner me?" Tiara scoffed. "Please. I had that under control."
"I don't doubt it," Chris replied, his smile genuine. "But it's more fun to team up, don't you think?"
Tiara chuckled. "Fine. Just don't expect me to owe you a favor for this."
"Too late," Chris said, twirling her effortlessly as the music swelled.
The Night Concludes
As the banquet wound down, the rumors of Tiara and Chris's supposed engagement reached fever pitch. But Tiara couldn't bring herself to careânot when she had so thoroughly dismantled Lilith and Alistair's attempts to embarrass her.
As she left the palace with her family, Tiara glanced back at Chris, who stood at the top of the palace steps, watching her go. He raised a hand in a subtle wave, and Tiara, after a moment's hesitation, waved back.
"Interesting night," Cedric remarked as they climbed into their carriage.
"You have no idea," Tiara replied, a small smile tugging at her lips.