Page 52 of Maid For The Dark Elf

"I—how did you know⁠—"

"Seralyth mentioned the musicians needed confirmation." His pen continues moving across parchment, signing papers with mechanical precision. "Was there something else?"

The dismissal stings worse than outright cruelty would. This is what I am to him now—another task to be completed efficiently. Another responsibility to manage and set aside.

"No." My voice sounds hollow to my own ears. "Nothing else."

I turn to leave, but his voice stops me at the doorway.

"Rosalie."

Hope flares like a struck match. I face him, searching those beautiful indigo eyes for some trace of the man who whispered promises against my skin.

"Ensure you coordinate with Jen about the serving arrangements. We can't have any... confusion during the ceremony."

The match dies, leaving only cold ash. He's reminding me of my place. Making certain I understand that I'm staff, nothing more.

"Of course, my lord."

The formal address makes him flinch slightly, but he recovers quickly. "Thank you."

I flee before the tears can start.

Later that evening, I find myself arranging flowers in the main hall while Aurelia and Alaric review final details nearby. Their quiet conversation carries notes of genuine affection despite the political nature of their union. Watching them hurts—a reminder that some people can find happiness even within duty's constraints.

"The guest chambers are prepared," Caelric announces as he enters the hall. "Lord Thane's delegation arrives tomorrow."

"Excellent." Aurelia glances between her brother and me with careful neutrality. "Rosalie, could you ensure the blue suite has fresh linens?"

"Of course." I gather the remaining flower stems, acutely aware of Caelric's presence across the room. He stands near the window, reviewing papers by lamplight, and the familiar sight of him working makes my chest ache.

This is what I've become—another servant scurrying around the edges of his life. Another human woman who dared to dream above her station. I can practically hear the whispers that must follow me through the estate. There goes Lord Ardyn's former favorite. Now she's set her sights on young Lord Vaerith. Typical human behavior, really.

The shame burns hotter than anger. Every kindness the family showed me, every moment I felt like I belonged—it's all tainted now by the knowledge of what they think I am. A climbing, grasping creature using my body to secure better treatment.

Just like they probably assumed about Aethan.

That thought stops me cold. Aethan, who treated me with such careful respect. Aethan, who's still missing while I've been drowning in self-pity. Whatever pain Caelric's rejection has caused, finding the man who saved me from a life of horror matters more than my broken heart.

I straighten my shoulders and continue with the flowers. Let them think what they will about my relationship with Caelric. Let them assume I'm exactly what every other human woman in my position has been. I know the truth, even if it no longer matters to anyone else.

Aethan needs me to be stronger than this humiliation. And perhaps, when he's found and House Ardyn is secure, I can finally leave Vhoig behind entirely.

The wedding approaches like an inevitable storm, and I'll weather it with whatever dignity I can manage. Even if my heart breaks a little more each day.

25

CAELRIC

The guest registry requires my signature for the third time this morning. I stare at the parchment, pen hovering over the designated line, while my mind churns through seating arrangements that have nothing to do with politics and everything to do with avoiding her.

"The Melaniris delegation confirmed their arrival for tomorrow evening," Nikolai announces, entering my study without ceremony. "Their advance guard rode in an hour ago."

"Good." I sign the registry with deliberate strokes. "Ensure their quarters include the ceremonial wine. Melaniris appreciates proper protocol."

"Already handled." He settles into the chair by my desk, violet eyes sweeping my face with uncomfortable intensity. "You look terrible, brother."

"Thank you for the observation. Was there something else?"