After feeding the snow lion until his belly looked ready to burst, I slipped out toward the garden to catch some fresh air.
I'd been running around since dawn, shouting orders, fixing mistakes, and double-checking every detail for the birthday banquet. Even I deserved a moment of rest—or at least to breathe without someone tugging at my sleeve.
But the moment I stepped into the garden, I froze.
A figure strolled leisurely along the gravel path, parasol in hand. Pale pink silk, matching the soft shade of her hair, framed her with elegance.
Amelia.
Of course.
"It's still early," I said as I walked over, eyebrows raised. "The official invitation time hasn't even arrived. Why are you here so soon?"
Her lips curved. "Is it strange to come early to see one's fiancé?"
"…What?"
The word slipped out before I could stop it. I gave her a lukewarm look, the kind that said don't mess with me, but she only pressed her lips together, a mischievous smile tugging at the corners.
