The grand royal ball slowly came to an end.
One by one, the chandeliers dimmed, their golden light fading into a softer glow. Nobles began leaving the palace halls, their laughter and whispers dissolving into the night.
Outside, carriages lined the marble courtyard.
June stepped out of the palace, holding her blue gown slightly so she wouldn't trip. The cool night air brushed her cheeks, calming the nervous flutter still in her heart.
It's finally over…
She exhaled softly.
Tonight had been exhausting.
Pretending to be someone else…Meeting the Crown Prince…Avoiding trouble…
"June Astral."
Her fake name echoed in her mind, making her lips press into a small worried line.
I hope no one suspects anything…
Above her, the moon shone bright and silver — almost as if watching.
Meanwhile, on the palace balcony—
Lucas stood alone in the shadows, his dark hair moving slightly in the wind, golden eyes fixed on the courtyard below.
He watched as June entered her carriage.
"June Astral…" he murmured coldly.
He didn't believe it.
No noble lady moved the way she did.No ordinary girl had eyes like that — calm yet powerful.
And that strange presence around her…
His hand tightened on the railing.
"Investigate the Astral family," he ordered a knight standing behind him.
The knight bowed immediately.
"Yes, Your Highness."
Lucas's gaze darkened.
"If she is lying… I will find out why."
Below, June's carriage began to move.
As it rolled away from the palace, she leaned back against the seat, finally allowing herself to relax.
A small smile appeared.
"I survived…"
But deep in her chest, something felt uneasy.
As if tonight had only opened the door to something far bigger.
Far more dangerous.