Kiana's eyes narrowed. "What's really wrong, Mom? Tell me."
Rosalinda's weak smile appeared. "Tomorrow's your birthday, sweetie. I saved for your dance lessons." Tears welled up in Kiana's eyes. "But Mom, your medicine..." Rosalinda's hands cradled Kiana's face. "Watching you dance brings me joy, more than any medicine." As Kiana's eyes welled up with gratitude, tears of joy trickled down her cheeks. "Thank you, Mom," she whispered, her voice trembling. Rosalinda's face lit up with a warm smile.
✧~•~✧
Kiana's feet seemed to skip with excitement as she approached the dance studio. She had always dreamed of taking lessons, and finally, here she was. But as she reached the gate, her enthusiasm wavered. "Am I really doing this?" she wondered, a smile still plastered on her face.
Just as doubt began to creep in, a chill ran down her spine. Cassandra stood before her, eyes flashing with disdain. "Here we go again, the lowly girl thinks she can dance," she sneered.
Kiana stood tall, her determination renewed. "Lady Cassandra, please. I don't have time for your condescension." With a fierce glint in her eye, she stepped through the gate, leaving Cassandra's scorn behind.
✧~•~✧
Lady Cashiopine lounged on her plush couch. "Rosalinda, could you bring me some water?"
Rosalinda, suppressing a cough, curtsied. "Yes, Your Grace." Cashiopine's gaze briefly met Rosalinda's before shifting toward the window, where a pigeon fluttered in.
Soren spoke up, "Always indoors, my lady? Fresh air would do you good."
Cashiopine smiled. "Sure?"
Soren smirked. "Looks like I've reminded you of the world outside."
✧~•~✧
Axel's eyes sparkled with genuine delight as he gazed at Kiana. "So, you finally reached your dream." Kiana's face glowed, her enthusiasm radiant. "I couldn't believe it, Axel. I feel so alive!"
Axel's warm smile widened. "Congratulations! I'm beyond thrilled for you, Kiana." Kiana's cheeks flushed, pleased. "That's sweet."
Axel's expression turned sincere. "Remember, I'll always be here for you, supporting you every step of the way." Kiana's smile softened, her heart filled with gratitude. She felt cherished.
✧~•~✧
Cassandra's face twisted in rage as she hurled books and pillows across the room. "Argh!" she screamed. The maid rushed forward, calm but firm. "Your Grace, that's enough."
Cassandra's fury boiled over. "Why should I?! That lowly girl has no right to be happy!"
------
*Later at Baroque Mansion*
Lukas approached Cassandra with a grin. "Cassandra, are you feeling better after your outburst? Hahaha."
Cassandra's eyes flashed angrily. "Enough nonsense, Lukas de Barcelona."
Cashiopine turned to her sister. "What's wrong, little sister?"
Lukas chuckled once more, clearly amused. "Hahaha."
Soren lounged, book in hand, a sly smile spreading across his face. "My lady, did you travel through Western Everia on your way to Elyria? That's thousands of miles, isn't it?"
Cashiopine's eyebrow arched. "Shall I answer that, Soren?"
Soren's smile faltered, his eyes widening slightly. "W-well..."
Rosalinda curtsied elegantly. "Your Grace, may I take my leave now?"
Cashiopine nodded graciously. "Sure, Rosalinda."
With a subtle bow, Rosalinda departed, her quiet footsteps fading into the distance.
As Rosalinda stepped into her cozy home, her daughter Kiana rushed into her arms, beaming. "Mom!"
Rosalinda's eyes warmed. "So, you finally enrolled in dancing lessons?"
Kiana nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, Mom!"
Rosalinda's smile faltered, replaced by a faint cough.
Kiana's concern deepened. "Mom, I think you should rest. I'll take care of dinner."
Rosalinda nodded gratefully. "Thank you, dear."
*The night slipped away*
✧~•~✧
After the dancing lesson concluded, Ms. Vance beamed at Kiana. "Wow, I never expected you to be amazing at dancing!"
The room erupted in applause as Kiana blushed.
Cassandra scoffed, her voice laced with disdain. "Think about it, sis – that lowly girl trying to get in my way! Does she really believe she can steal the spotlight?" Cashiopine rolled her eyes. "Stop being problematic, Cassandra."