She snapped out of her thoughts by the sudden intrusion of her younger brother, Yoo Jaekyun, bursting into her room without warning.
Jaekyun:"Noona!"
The little boy called out to his sister, his tone filled with excitement as he slammed the door open.
The older sister, Yoo Jaehyun, looked up from her desk where she was diligently working on her homework. She regarded her younger brother with a mixture of curiosity and mild annoyance at his unexpected interruption.
Jaehyun:"What is it?"
Her voice carrying a hint of exasperation but also a touch of affection for her energetic little brother.
Jaekyun:"Let's play together!''
His request for companionship was met with a polite yet slightly disappointing refusal from his older sister.
She apologized, explaining that she was presently preoccupied with her work. However, she reassured him with the promise of playing together later.
Jaehyun:"Sorry, I'm busy right now. I'll play with you later, okay...?"
She replied gently.
The sight of her younger brother dejectedly leaving her room tugged at Jaehyun's heartstrings. She felt a pang of guilt for having to turn him down, knowing that he longed for her company.
Jaekyun:"Okay..."
He murmured, his disappointment evident in his expression. He obediently left the room, leaving Jaehyun with a tinge of regret for having to reject his request.
The urgency in Jaehyun's mind propelled her to write with remarkable speed, her focus laser-sharp as she raced through her work. She muttered her intentions to herself, a determination burning within her.
Jaehyun:"I have to end this quickly. Finish up my homework...so that I can spend precious time playing with my adorable little brother!"
Her pen seemed to glide across the paper like a brush, her notes rapidly filling the pages at an impressive pace.
Jaeh:"I'M DONE!"
Her voice echoed triumphantly as she declared the completion of her work. Without wasting a precious moment, she dashed into the living room, her heart brimming with anticipation.
There, she discovered her little brother engrossed in playing with his toys, seemingly unaware of the passage of time as he immersed himself in a world of imagination.
Jaehyun's voice echoed triumphantly as she declared the completion of her work. Without wasting a precious moment, she dashed into the living room, her heart brimming with anticipation.
There, she discovered her little brother engrossed in playing with his toys, seemingly unaware of the passage of time as he immersed himself in a world of imagination.
The excitement in Jaehyun's voice was palpable as she eagerly suggested to her little brother,
Jaehyun:"Let's play together!"
Her little brother looked up from his toys, a trace of surprise in his expression at the timing of her invitation.
Jaekyun:"Did you finish your homework, Noona?"
He inquired curiously, noting the unusually quick completion of her work
With a playful grin, Jaehyun confirmed that she had finished her homework, and an idea popped into her mind.
Jaehyun:"Yeah, I'm all done! Let's turn on the TV and play with those controllers!"
Jaekyun obediently agreed, excited to engage in some fun with his older sister.
The sound of the TV coming to life filled the room as the two siblings grabbed hold of their controllers, their anticipation mounting as their fingers hovered over the start button. There was a brief moment of silence as they prepared themselves for the upcoming gaming session, their competitive spirits bubbling beneath the surface.
Jaehyun:"Alright, it's time to see who's the ultimate champion this time!"
She declared, her eyes locked onto the screen and her grip tightening around her controller.
His sincere admiration for his older sister filled the air as he praised her abilities.
Jaekyun:"Sis... You're truly the best!"
She smiled warmly at his words, touched by his genuine adoration. She replied softly, her voice filled with affection.
Jaehyun:"No need to worry. I'll always make time for my one and only little brother~"
Time seemed to evaporate as the two siblings immersed themselves wholeheartedly in their gaming session. Their focus was entirely fixed on the screen, their controllers gripped tightly in their hands.
The sounds of the game filled the room, accompanied by hushed breaths, gasps of excitement, and an occasional cheer of victory or exclamation of defeat.
They were two players deeply engrossed in a friendly competition, their minds fully occupied with the digital world unfolding before them.
***
The vividness of her dream lingered as Lena awoke with tears welling up in her eyes. She softly murmured her brother's name, her heart heavy with emotion.
Lena:"Jaekyun..."
With a heavy sigh, she shifted her gaze out of the window. There, she noticed a man with raven-colored hair standing outside, caught in her line of sight.
The vividness of her dream lingered as Lena awoke with tears welling up in her eyes. She softly murmured her brother's name, her heart heavy with emotion.
With a heavy sigh, she shifted her gaze out of the window. There, she noticed a man with raven-colored hair standing outside, caught in her line of sight.
Her observant gaze lingered on the man with raven hair who seemed to exude a sense of nobility in his demeanor. She wondered about his identity and the purpose of his visit.
Lena:"(He definitely appears noble... I wonder if we had any guests scheduled today?)"
Her thoughts swirled with curiosity as she continued to watch the mysterious man from the window.
As Lena looked at herself in the mirror, she took note of her appearance. She observed the black hair and pink eyes she inherited from her parents, with the exception of the lone, vibrant pink streak in her hair.
Lena:"(Black hair and pink eyes... I've definitely inherited my parents' traits, with the exception of the pink streak in my hair..)"
She observed her reflection for a moment more before finally exiting her room, her curiosity piqued about the mysterious noble who had arrived at their household.
Her thoughts swirled with memories of the past, recalling how some nobles had speculated about her true parentage due to the distinctive pink streak in her hair. Despite their doubts, her father had staunchly denied the rumors, firmly asserting their validity.
Lena:"(Those nobles used to whisper about my parentage, all because of this pink streak in my hair... But my father always dismissed their insinuations, standing by my side as my true parent....)"
The memories echoed in her mind as she made her way out of her room, prepared to greet the mysterious noble waiting downstairs.
Her thoughts shifted, reflecting on her father's unwavering declaration of her parentage.
Lena:"(He always insisted, "You are my daughter, no matter what others say..." Besides, I never saw Mother being with anyone else aside from Father.)"
The image of her parents remained firmly etched in her mind, a constant reassurance of her true parentage. With a deep breath, she steeled herself and descended the staircase to meet the enigmatic noble waiting downstairs.
Her memories further took her back to recollections of her mother, who was known for her devoted care of their family and her diligent work as a pharmacist.
Lena:"(She was incredibly devoted, often putting her all into caring for us and performing her duties as a pharmacist.)"
But, there was one particular incident that still vivid in Lena's mind.
Lena:"(I recall the time when she discovered the rumors about me not being father's child. She was furious, nearly resorting to physical violence against the one who started the falsehood, until Father stopped her...)"
Her thoughts continued, recalling the moment her father intervened, preventing the situation from escalating further.
Lena:"(Imagine if Father hadn't intervened... Mother might have committed an act worthy of punishment.)"
A mix of relief and gratitude welled up within her as she remembered her father's timely intervention, averting what could have turned into a severe consequence.
The memory of her mother's heated reaction replayed vividly in Lena's mind.
Lena:"(She was seething, her words filled with a mix of anger and protectiveness as she threatened the individual who had started the rumors.)"
______________________________________
Amelia: "If you ever dare to spread another despicable rumor about my family, mark my words... I will find you and slice your tongue right out of your mouth! You will never speak ill of my family again!!"
______________________________________
She delved into the realm of past memories, contemplating the scarcity of recent rumors about her parentage.
Lena:"(The talk about me being someone else's child has been quiet... come to think of it, it was a baseless rumor all along. And honestly, I've always liked the vibrant red streak in my hair.)"
The memories of her past life resurfaced, accompanied by a sense of realization. The once-bothersome red streak now held a touch of uniqueness and charm, leaving her reflecting on the absurdity of the unfounded speculation.
Her internal dialogue took a turn towards empowerment and self-confidence. The whispers and doubts faded into the background, replaced by a determination to live her life on her own terms.
Lena:"(To hell with what people say about me! I won't let their opinions dictate my life. I'm done hiding in my shell. It's time for me to forge my own path.)"
There was a newfound strength in her inner voice, fueling her resolve to embrace life fully and embrace her uniqueness without regard for external judgment.
She entered the parlor, her gaze settling on her parents seated on the couch, engaged in conversation with an unidentified individual. Her father, James, acknowledged her presence.
James:"Good morning, Lena,"
He said with a warm smile, his voice breaking the silence in the room.
Noticing her daughter's entry, Amelia warmly welcomed her, gesturing for her to take a seat.
Amelia:"Good morning, Lena. Do join us, please."
Lena nodded in response, taking a seat nearby, her curiosity piqued as to who their visitor was and the purpose of their gathering.
As she settled beside her father, Lena's eyes fell upon the mysterious man who had earlier caught her attention out the window. The realization that this was the same individual dawned upon her, and she silently observed his presence in the room, her curiosity piqued.
???:"So this is your second daughter... she's quite beautiful I'd say".
Intrigued by the stranger's comment, Lena turned to her father for an explanation.
Lena:"Father, who is this?"
She asked curiously, her gaze lingering on the mysterious man.
He replied, a slight smile playing on his lips.
James:"Ah, my apologies. Lena, let me introduce you. This gentleman is Duke George Dran."
Her intrigue grew as her father revealed the identity of the mysterious man. The name "Duke Dran" carried weight, signifying his prominent position within the Dran family. Her eyes focused on the black-haired man, his green gaze meeting her gaze with a subtle intensity.
Her thoughts swirled as she fixated on the resemblance between the man before her and the character from the RPG game.
Lena:"(There's no denying the uncanny resemblance, the same raven hair and distinct facial features... yet, his eyes hold a different hue, a vivid green in contrast to Edmund's red hues...)"
As her father introduced the Duchess of the Dran Family, Lena's gaze shifted to the woman standing beside the Count.
James:"And this is his wife, Luna Dran, the Duchess of the Dran Family."
Lena nodded politely, acknowledging the introduction while silently observing the Duchess, taking in her elegant presence and composure.
The lady exuded an air of grace, her blonde hair and crimson eyes striking a striking contrast. Lena found herself taken aback by the Duchess's beauty.
Lena:"(She's so stunning... I didn't even notice her at first. Her eyes bear a resemblance to Edmund's too...)"
She couldn't help but admire the lady's appearance, finding herself momentarily captivated by her presence.
As Duke Dran addressed her, his words caught her off guard.
George:"It's a pleasure to meet you, Lena Dunham. Your parents have mentioned you quite a few times."
Her curiosity piqued, wondering what her parents might have mentioned about her to him. The thought of her parents talking about her sparked a sense of intrigue, making her wonder what details they might have shared.
Lena:"N-nice to meet you!"
Embarrassed, Lena sought refuge behind her father, seeking comfort and shielding herself from the Duchess's gaze by burying her face in her father's arm.
Chuckling softly, offered a lighthearted explanation.
James:"My daughter is quite shy. Please be gentle with her,"
He said, patting her head affectionately.
The Duke chuckled softly, amused by Lena's shy demeanor and her father's protective gesture.
George:"No need to worry. I'll be gentle with her,"
He reassured James, his voice carrying a hint of amusement.
The Duchess joined in, her eyes filled with appreciation as she observed Lena.
Luna:"Indeed. Your daughter is quite adorable,"
She echoed, her warm smile radiating kindness.
Her father, expressed gratitude to the Duchess, his hand resting affectionately on Lena's head as he acknowledged her compliment.
James:"Thank you,"
He said softly, his hand gently patting Lena's hair.
The conversation shifted as Amelia posed a question to the Duchess, her tone inquisitive.
Amelia:"How is everything between you and your husband?"
The Duchess responded with a light smile, her voice laced with affection.
Lena:"Things are excellent. We get along exceptionally well."
The Duchess continued, elaborating on the matter of their family life.
Luna:"We're quite busy with our duties, and one of our top priorities is looking after our children."
She took a graceful sip of her tea, her composure unruffled by the topic of conversation.
The Duchess's words carried a touch of playfulness, her smirk hinting at her tease.
Luna:"Speaking of energy, I assume you and James have quite a bit of it yourself. After all, it's taken a lot of energy to produce this lovely young lady here," she said, her gaze flicking towards Lena.
Amelia giggled, amused by the Duchess's comment. James, taken aback by the playful banter, blushed slightly and chuckled.
James:Oh, er... well-"
He struggled to find the right words, his composure slightly flustered.
James:"We, uh-"
He swiftly intervened, realizing the sensitive nature of the conversation with Lena present. He quickly covered his daughter's ears, his exclamation a mixture of embarrassment and protectiveness.
James:"Hey, our daughter is here!"
He shielded Lena's ears, ensuring that she remained untouched by the adults' conversation and the subtle innuendo woven into the Duchess's words.
Her mother quickly chimed in, her own embarrassment palpable, as she scolded the Duchess.
Amelia:"Exactly! Children are present, please refrain from saying such things!"
Her words were laced with both embarrassment and a hint of admonishment, emphasizing the presence of their daughter in the room.
The Duchess, chastened by Amelia's scolding, lowered her gaze sheepishly.
Luna:"My apologies... I got carried away," she said, her voice tinged with regret as she realized her faux pas.
The Duke, sensing the awkwardness in the room, offered an apology on his wife's behalf, bowing his head in regret.
George:"Please forgive my wife's impertinent remarks. She sometimes forgets her boundaries."
Her father, finally releasing his hold on Lena's ears, urged the Duke to rise from his bowed position.
James:"No need for that, Duke. Please, raise your head."
The atmosphere in the room became slightly less tense with James's friendly reassurances.
The tension eased slightly as Amelia spoke, her tone firm yet slightly dark.
Amelia:"Just ensure your wife refrains from saying anything inappropriate in front of our children. Then there won't be any issues," she stated, her expression conveying a hint of sternness.
The Duke nodded in agreement, his smile slightly strained by the previous exchange.
George:"Yes, indeed. We'll ensure there are no more... inappropriate remarks," he responded, his voice betraying a touch of nervousness.
Her father, sought to steer the conversation back on course, aiming to alleviate the lingering tension in the room.
James:"Right, let's return to our discussion,"
He suggested, hoping to redirect the discussion towards a more comfortable topic.
The conversation shifted back to a businesslike tone as the Duke resumed discussing the contract. Lena couldn't help but discreetly shake her head in disbelief, feeling slightly embarrassed by the adults' antics.
George:"Ah yes, regarding the contract... We're more than willing for you to sign it. The terms are quite reasonable, and we see great potential in this venture."
Her father, eager to seize the opportunity, replied without a shred of hesitation.
James:"Absolutely! We will sign it. Your terms are fair, and we wholeheartedly support this partnership."
The Duke satisfaction was apparent as he expressed his anticipation.
George:"Likewise. We look forward to working together, and we extend an open invitation for you to visit us at the Dran family estate."
Her earlier demeanor completely vanished, flashed a sincere yet somewhat oblivious smile. It was as if the earlier awkward exchange had never taken place.
Amelia:"Indeed, we'll be looking forward to our next meeting. We would be more than happy to host you at our estate," she responded, her smile seemingly untroubled by the previous incident.
Lena observed as the Duke and Duchess bid farewell and departed from their estate. Despite their warm and amiable demeanor, she couldn't shake the thought that these were the parents of the "villain" from the RPG game's storyline. Lena found herself conflicted, grappling with the dissonance of their pleasant personalities and the role they would eventually play.
As she watched their carriage drive away, her thoughts swirled with a mixture of intrigue and apprehension. Little did she know that her paths would intertwine with the Dran family in unforeseen ways.
Lena:"Father about the contract... Will you guys meet each other often?"
Her father pondered his daughter's question, contemplating the frequency of future meetings with the Dran family.
"I imagine we'll be in regular contact with them due to our ongoing trade discussions and business dealings. The Dran family's holdings extend far and wide, so it's likely we'll have more encounters,"
He replied, trying to assuage Lena's concern.
Her father turned his attention to Lena, sensing her curiosity about the contract. He took a moment to consider the question before responding.
James:"Yes, we'll likely meet the Dran family quite a few times as our businesses work together. Why do you ask?"
Lena:"Nothing, just concern that's all~ Hahaha...''
Her father noticed her attempt to brush off her concern, but a hint of skepticism lingered in his eyes. He regarded Lena for a moment, his expression reflecting a mix of concern and curiosity.
James:"Are you certain it's nothing? You seem a bit... anxious."
He said feeling more suspicious of his daughter's behavior
Her thoughts took a more practical turn as she considered her next course of action. Given the significance of the contract and the potential for involvement with the Dran family, she pondered the idea of strengthening herself further.
Lena:"(Hunting monsters and gathering extra money... It wouldn't hurt to be extra prepared.)"
Her mind made up, a resolute determination settled onto her features.
Amelia:"Lena, please call your siblings upstairs when I prepared breakfast''.
With Amelia's directive in mind, Lena swiftly ascended the stairs, her steps filled with purpose. She knew that her siblings would need to be summoned for breakfast.
Lena:"Got it!"
She called out, her voice carrying an undertone of responsibility, as she headed upstairs to rouse her siblings from their slumber.
She couldn't help but wear a warm smile as her thoughts drifted to her thoughts about her parents' love story. She thought about how her mother's humble upbringing hadn't diminished her strength or her ability to adapt to different environments.
Lena:"(Mother may have been a commoner, but her strength and adaptability shone through, no wonder father fell in love with her)"
She mused to herself, a soft affection evident on her face.
The thought of finding love and forging a deep connection with someone crossed Lena's mind, and she mused about the future and the possibility of experiencing love herself.
"Who knows... Perhaps I'll find love someday,"
She whispered to herself, the anticipation and uncertainty about the future filling her heart with a mix of hope and curiosity.
Her daydreaming was abruptly interrupted as she arrived at her brother's room, her thoughts shifting from dreamy musings to the task at hand. She took a moment to gather her focus before gently knocking on the door.
Lena:"Hey... Wake up! Breakfast is almost ready."
She called out, her voice carrying a mix of sibling love and minor irritation.
She waited for a few minutes before her older brother, Thomas, slowly opened the door, still half-asleep. His disheveled appearance and groggy expression betrayed his state of just waking up. Thomas rubbed his eyes blearily and greeted his sister with a sleepy smile.
Thomas:"Mornin',"
He muttered through a yawn, struggling to fully wake up.
She gently urged her brother to get up and head downstairs for breakfast, her voice carrying a hint of warning. The reference to their mother's frying pan was a subtle but effective motivator, as Thomas knew all too well the consequences of keeping their mother waiting.
Lena:"You don't want to face mother and her frying pan, do you? Hurry up and get yourself downstairs,"
She teased, a playful smirk on her face. Lena watched with amusement as her brother's half-asleep state abruptly shifted into urgency when she mentioned their mother's frying pan. Thomas quickly forced his eyes open and dashed downstairs, determined to avoid any impending frying pan treatment.
She couldn't help but chuckle at the sight of her brother's sudden rush to get downstairs.
Lena:"Looks like the fear of the frying pan works every time,"
She muttered to herself, still grinning at the amusing scene. Lena moved on to her sister's room, a sense of accomplishment filling her as she had successfully coaxed her brother to join them for breakfast. With determination and a touch of playful competitiveness, she approached her sister's door and raised her fist, rapping her knuckles on the wooden surface with a firm yet gentle rhythm.
Lena:"Rise and shine, sleepyhead!"
She called out, her voice carrying a mix of eagerness and light sarcasm. Lena waited patiently but received no response after her initial call. Frustration tugged at her as it seemed her sister was stubbornly clinging to slumber.
Lena:"Of course you're still not waking up... Time for some drastic measures,"
She muttered under her breath. Lena knew it would take more than polite knocks to rouse her sister from bed. She took matters into her own hands, entering her sister's room and approaching her bedside. With a playful yet firm tone, she whispered in Louise's ear, invoking the infamous threat of their mother's frying pan.
Lena:"Louise, dear sister, rise and shine, or else Mother's frying pan will make its presence known," Lena teased, her tone laced with both affection and a touch of menace. "You don't want to face the wrath of that pan, do you?"
She witnessed the immediate effect her words had on her sister. Louise's eyes widened in alarm as the mention of the frying pan snapped her out of her deep sleep. With a burst of energy, she promptly bolted out of her room, her sleepy state instantly replaced by a sense of urgency.
She couldn't help but chuckle at the sight, enjoying the humorous scene she had just engineered.
Lena:"Looks like that threat worked like a charm,"
She muttered to herself, her smirk widening."
Lena witnessed the immediate effect her words had on her sister. Louise's eyes widened in alarm as the mention of the frying pan snapped her out of her deep sleep. With a burst of energy, she promptly bolted out of her room, her sleepy state instantly replaced by a sense of urgency.
Lena couldn't help but chuckle at the sight, enjoying the humorous scene she had just engineered.
"Looks like that threat worked like a charm,"
She muttered to herself, her smirk widening. Lena felt a sense of satisfaction wash over her as her plan to wake her siblings had been a resounding success. Not only had she managed to coerce both of them out of bed and downstairs, but she had also done so with minimal fuss and the perfect dose of playful threats.
Lena:"Mission accomplished,"
She thought silently, a satisfied smile playing at the corners of her mouth. With her siblings now down in the dining room and breakfast soon to begin, Lena allowed herself a moment of smug victory before heading downstairs herself.
Lena's threat of their mother using a frying pan to wake them up held a specific reason behind it. Amelia, her mother, had once employed this same tactic, causing a noisy awakening for both of them that left a lasting impression. Ever since that infamous incident, Lena's siblings had been deeply affected by the memory of their mother wielding the frying pan, leading to a collective sense of trauma that Lena exploited playfully whenever the need arose.
***
Breakfast unfolded in the family's dining room, the atmosphere filled with the clinking of cutlery and the aroma of various dishes. Suddenly, the scene was interrupted as Amelia's sudden feeling of nausea overtook her. Everyone at the table halted their activities, concern replacing the previous serenity as they all turned their attention to her.
Lena:"Mother? Are you okay?"
She asked, her voice filled with worry.
His concern evident in his voice, quickly voiced his concern for his wife.
James:"Amelia! Are you alright?"
Her mother managed to compose herself briefly to respond, attempting to downplay the situation.
Amelia:"I-I'm fine... Just a little nauseous, that's all."
A new sense of urgency filled the room as it became apparent that Amelia's nausea was an early sign of something more significant. James' voice rang out, filled with alarm, as he realized what was happening.
James:"The baby is coming... Call a doctor!"
He exclaimed, his words filled with a mix of anticipation and nervousness.
Lena and her siblings exchanged glances, realizing the momentous event that was about to take place.
The dutiful maids quickly responded to the emergency, their footsteps echoing as they swiftly departed from the room in search of a doctor.
Amelia clutched her stomach, her face contorted with the increasing intensity of the pain she was experiencing. Soft groans escaped her lips, a clear sign of the impending labor.
Amidst the chaos of the moment, James reached out to his wife, offering his hand as a source of comfort and support.
James:"Amelia, hold my hand! I'm right here,"
He assured her, his voice filled with both reassurance and determination.
Amelia, despite the pain and fear, managed to grasp his hand tightly, drawing solace from her husband's presence.
As she clenched his hand tightly, the force of her grip sent a jolt of pain through James' hand. He winced involuntarily but steadfastly endured the discomfort, his focus solely on being there for his wife during this crucial moment.
James:"Ouch!"
He exclaimed, a hint of discomfort in his voice, but his resolve remained unwavering. He pushed aside his own pain, knowing that this moment was about her and the upcoming arrival of their child.
The maid's voice pierced the room, her announcement signaling the arrival of the doctor they had urgently summoned.
"The doctor is here!"
The doctor, a professional in his field, briskly entered the room, immediately taking control of the situation. He approached Amelia and began a preliminary examination, his hands checking her vital signs and monitoring the progression of the labor.
The doctor assessed the situation and quickly turned to the present family members, requesting a private space for the immediate care of Amelia.
"Please, we need a private room,"
He stated firmly, his voice carrying the authority of a medical professional in charge.
James glanced at Lena and the others, signaling that it was time for them to give way to the medical intervention.
Their father, filled with determination and concern, carefully scooped up his wife in his arms. Ignoring his own earlier pain, he led the way, guiding them through the house towards a private room where the medical care could be provided.
James:"I'll lead the way!"
He declared firmly, his voice tinged with both worry and determination.
Amelia, now in her husband's arms, felt a mix of comfort and reliance upon him as they hurried through the corridors, their path leading towards the designated room for the impending childbirth.
As they navigated the corridors, Lena and her siblings couldn't help but voice their concerns and inquire about their mother's well-being.
The eldest's voice carried a hint of worry as she sought reassurance.
Louise: "Will Mother be alright?"
The second, equally anxious, turned to Lena, hoping for a comforting response from his older sister.
Thomas:"I'm sure Mother will be alright, right, Lena?"
Lena:"Yeah... She'll be alright. After all she's the strongest mom we ever have right?"
Louise/Thomas:"Right!"
Their nanny 'Sophie' stood silently watching the exchange between Lena and her younger siblings, a small smile adorning her face. She felt a wave of relief wash over her, grateful that the children hadn't succumbed to the anxiety of the situation.
Sophie:"(Thank goodness the kids aren't panicking. They're surprisingly calm.)"
She thought silently, her relief evident in her subtle expression.
The nanny approached the children, her voice gentle but firm as she gave instructions on their next course of action.
Sophie:"Come on, children. We'll wait outside the room. Make sure you don't cause any trouble for them, okay?"
Louise and Thomas nodded in response, understanding the importance of behaving themselves during this crucial time. They were determined to be on their best behavior, knowing that their mother and the doctor needed a peaceful environment for the labor.
Louise, Thomas, and Lena acknowledged Sophia's instructions with a unified affirmation, their voices resolute and obedient.
"Alright,"
They replied in unison, their words carrying a mixture of understanding and compliance. They knew that their cooperation was crucial during this delicate time, and they were committed to avoiding any disruptive behavior that might hinder the medical procedures taking place within the private room.
Sophie:"Please follow me children".
The children, loyal in their obedience, followed closely behind Sophie. Lena, Paul, and Louise fell in step with her, each with a mixture of anticipation and concern on their faces.
As they approached the room where their parents had disappeared, Lena, Paul, and Louise kept their footsteps steady and their eyes fixed on Sophie. They trusted her guidance, confident that she would lead them to a place where they could wait patiently and silently for news of their mother's well-being.
***
Lena found solace under Sophie's gentle touch, her head resting comfortably on her lap. The rhythmic motion of Sophie's hand stroking her hair instilled a sense of calm and reassurance. Meanwhile, Louise and Thomas engaged in a lighthearted discussion, their young voices filled with youthful speculation.
Louise:"I bet it's a girl this time,"
She declared adamantly.
Her brother, ever confident, chimed in with his own prediction.
Thomas: "Nah, it's definitely a boy. I just have a feeling."
As their attention shifted, Lena and the others noticed their father standing outside the room, his exhaustion evident on his face. He looked weary but composed, as if he had been through quite an ordeal.
Lena, Paul, and Louise looked at their father with a mixture of anticipation and worry, silently hoping for any news about their mother. They waited anxiously, their eyes fixed on their father, hoping to glean some information from his exhausted expression.
Sophie:"How is she?"
Their nanny voiced her question, her concern evident in her tone. In response, James mustered a weary smile and provided a positive update.
James:"She's fine,"
He affirmed, his weary smile betraying the exhaustion beneath the surface.
Lena, Paul, and Louise felt a collective sense of relief wash over them at their father's words. Knowing that their mother was stable brought a measure of comfort to their worried hearts.
As the conversation continued, Lena voiced the question that weighed on their minds.
Lena:"What about the baby? Is it healthy?"
Her father replied with reassurance, his weary face softened by a glimmer of joy.
James:"The baby is healthy,"
He repeated, this time with more conviction and a touch of pride in his voice.
In response to their father's news, both Lena and Sophie heaved a collective sigh of relief, their worry momentarily lifted.
Louise and Thomas, who had been quietly observing the conversation, couldn't contain their excitement anymore. They rushed over to their father, their voices filled with youthful energy.
"Father!"
They exclaimed in unison, their small voices tinged with a mixture of anticipation and curiosity.
Caught off guard by the sudden outburst, James turned his weary gaze towards his Older children. His exhaustion was evident in his expression, but he couldn't help but be amused by their enthusiasm.
James:"What is it?"
He asked, a hint of affectionate exasperation in his voice.
Louise and Thomas, their curiosity getting the best of them, eagerly posed the question that had been lingering in their minds. They looked up at their father expectantly, their eyes filled with hopeful anticipation.
"The... the baby! Is it a boy or a girl?"
They asked in unison, barely able to contain their excitement.
Their father chuckled softly, his weariness momentarily replaced by a touch of amusement. He leaned down to their level, a hint of mischief in his eyes.
James:"You really want to know that badly, huh? It's a girl".
With a smile on his face, James divulged the gender of the baby, confirming that it was indeed a girl.
Louise:"Yay, I win! I get extra snacks now, Paul."
Thomas:"Darn it... tsk..."
Eager to catch a glimpse of their new sibling, Lena voiced her request.
Lena:"Can we see the baby?"
Her father nodded in agreement, but added a condition.
James:"Of course! But please be quiet. The baby is asleep..."
The children nodded eagerly, their excitement tempered by the importance of keeping a quiet environment for the newborn.
***
As they entered the room, they were greeted by the sight of their mother cradling the newborn baby. The children's excited voices rang out in unison.
"Mother!"
Amelia looked up from the baby and smiled warmly at her children. Her exhaustion was still evident on her face, but the joy of holding her newborn child filled her heart with overwhelming happiness.
"Come here, my children... come meet your newest family member..." she said softly.
The children eagerly approached their mother and the baby, their faces lighting up with awe at the sight of the tiny newborn.
Louise:"So cute!"
She exclaimed, unable to contain her delight.
Her brother the straightforward one, observed the baby's features and voiced his observation.
Thomas:"She looks like Father... only a girl version of him,"
He remarked with childlike honesty. Amelia chuckled softly, amused by his straightforward observation.
The brother turned to Lena, seeking her opinion on the baby's resemblance to their father.
Lena:"Don't you think so too, Lena?" he asked, expecting her agreement.
Lena, meanwhile, remained uncharacteristically silent, absorbed in her own thoughts.
Thomas:"Lena?"
He echoed the question, curious about her lack of response
The room fell silent as the others noticed Lena's unusual silence and the blank expression on her face. Amelia, sensing her daughter's unusual behavior, addressed her with concern.
Amelia:"Lena... Is there something wrong?"
Lena didn't respond, her gaze still fixed on the baby. Her quiet demeanor and lack of any distinguishable expression raised a wave of questions and worry among the others.
Recovering from her brief daze, Lena quickly tried to dismiss any concern with a dismissive remark.
Lena:"Oh! It's nothing... Just feeling a bit down, that's all," she replied, her voice carrying a hint of forced nonchalance.
The others exchanged skeptical glances, sensing that there was more to Lena's behavior than she was letting on.
Her mother, still concerned about her daughter's subdued demeanor, pressed the matter, seeking reassurance.
Amelia:"Are you sure?"
She quickly shifted the focus of the conversation, redirecting the attention to the baby.
Lena:"Yeah... Anyway, what's her name?" she asked, her attention now fully directed towards the tiny new addition to the family.
Her diversion worked in diverting the conversation, steering it away from her own feelings and back onto the topic at hand. Amelia, while still concerned about her daughter's behavior, followed suit and addressed the question about the baby's name.
Amelia:"Her name is Mona Dunham."
The others in the room took in the new information, their gazes shifting from Lena to the newborn baby, now named Mona Dunham.
Her older sister, brimming with excitement, immediately addressed the baby, affectionately greeting her with a warm
Louise:"Hello, Mona~ this is your big sister!"
Her brother the realist, interjected with a matter-of-fact tone, reminding Louise of the baby's sleepiness.
Thomas:"She's asleep, you know,"
He stated bluntly, adding a dose of practicality to the moment.
Her enthusiasm was momentarily dampened by Thomas's reminder that the baby was asleep. She let out an awkward chuckle and scratched her head, embarrassed by her momentary oversight.
Louise:"Oh right..."
The others couldn't help but find the scene a touch amusing, a sense of humor in the contrast between Louise's initial excitement and Thomas's pragmatic reminder about the sleeping baby.
Her earlier introspection momentarily forgotten, gently requested to hold the baby.
Lena:"Mother, can I... hold her?"
She asked, her voice tinged with a mix of excitement and nervousness.
Her mother's protective instincts still strong despite her recent childbirth, carefully allowed Lena to hold the baby.
Amelia:"Of course... but be careful, okay?" she replied, gently placing the baby into Lena's arms.
She took the baby gently in her arms, cradling her with utmost care and tenderness. She brought her close, the soft weight of the infant against her chest, and couldn't help but be captivated by the baby's adorableness.
Lena:"So cute..."
She whispered under her breath, a soft smile playing at her lips.
As soon as Mona began to cry, Lena's initial calmness gave way to panic. Unprepared for the unexpected change, she hastily passed the baby back to Amelia's waiting arms.
Amelia:"It's ok, it's ok,"
She reassured soothingly, her voice filled with a mother's natural sense of comfort. She rocked the baby gently, her soothing murmurs calming Mona's crying gradually.
The atmosphere in the room grew more intimate as James entered and took a seat beside his wife, who was still gently tending to Mona. He turned to the others and spoke with a hint of authority.
James:"You guys should go play outside,"
He stated, his voice gentle yet firm.
The children exchanged glances, a mix of disappointment and understanding in their expressions. They knew it was time to leave the room and give their parents space to tend to the newborn.
Louise and Thomas bid farewell, following their father's direction to go outside. However, Lena remained in the room, her gaze fixed on Mona with a strangely detached expression. Her lack of urgency to follow her siblings out intrigued the others, her demeanor a contrast to the earlier excitement.
Her father, having observed Lena's standoffish behavior earlier, noticed her reluctance to leave and shot her a curious glance.
His perception sharp and observant, noticed Lena's distant demeanor once again. His concern prompted him to address her directly, the weight of his concern lacing his words.
James:"Lena, are you alright?"
His daughter perhaps startled back into reality, hastily apologized and declared her intention to leave to go outside.
Lena:"Oh! Sorry... I'll go outside to play,"
She replied before swiftly departing, leaving behind the others with perplexed expressions. Sophie, ever observant and attuned to the atmosphere within the room, broke the silence with her insightful comment about Lena's behavior. Her astute observation struck a chord, her concern for the young lady's well-being evident.
Sophie:"Don't you think that my lady is acting a bit... off lately?"
She whispered, her voice carrying a hint of worry. James, his thoughts reflecting the same concern, nodded in agreement.
James:"Indeed, something is troubling Lena, but I cannot quite grasp what."
Amelia:"She is acting a bit off...but, we can't pressure with questions! It'll only scare her ".
Her husband nodded in agreement with his wife's words, acknowledging the delicacy of the situation. He recognized that pressuring Lena with questions would likely only push her further away, as their daughter had a tendency to retreat when faced with direct confrontation.
James:"You're right," he replied, his voice low and contemplative. "We mustn't press her with questions. It'll only drive her further away."
His wife worry lingered in her voice as she posed the next question.
Amelia:"But what do we do, then?"
The group fell into a moment of thoughtful silence, each member processing the situation and coming to a mutual understanding. They realized that giving Lena space and waiting for her to open up on her own terms was the best approach for now. James, with a heavy heart, voiced the conclusion they all silently reached.
James:"We'll just have to wait until she's ready to talk to us. For now, it's the best course of action,"
He stated, his words tinged with resignation. A solemn silence enveloped the room as the idea of waiting for Lena to come forward on her own accord resonated with the others. Though the idea troubled them, they begrudgingly accepted it as the only reasonable course of action, understanding that pressuring her would only further push Lena away.
Their agreement hung heavy in the air, a shared understanding that, for now, the matter would be left in limbo, their worry for her silently mounting.
***
As Lena lay on the soft grass, her thoughts drifted to memories of days gone by, specifically those of her childhood with her brother Jaehyun. With a nostalgic smile, she recalled a particular moment, speaking aloud to herself.
"Jaehyun! Look, this is your brother Jaekyun."
Her voice carried a mix of sadness and affection, the simple phrase filled with a depth of emotion. A gust of wind playfully blew strands of her hair, caressing her face as if to remind her of the passage of time and the bittersweet nature of her reminiscing.
The youthful voice rang out, filled with curiosity and excitement. She caught sight of his mother tenderly holding a newborn bundle in her arms, and his eyes widened in awe. Without a moment's hesitation, he turned to his mother and asked with hopeful anticipation.
Jaehyun:"He looks so cute! Can I hold him, mom?"
The question hung in the air, his eagerness palpable, as he waited eagerly for her mother's response. Jaehyun's face lit up with joy as her mother responded with a simple yet important instruction.
"Sure... But please don't drop him, okay?"
With a determined nod, Jaehyun affirmed her agreement.
Jaehyun:"Ok!"
She extended her arms with a mixture of excitement and caution, ready to hold her younger brother. The moment Jaehyun cradled the infant in her arms, her expression softened into a look of pure adoration. She held him close to her face, as if attempting to memorize every little detail.
She beamed down at the tiny infant in her arms, her voice filled with warmth and affection.
Jaehyun:"Hello! I'm your big sister,"
She declared, her eyes locked lovingly on the baby, Jaekyun. To her delight, Jaekyun responded with a curious look, his little face twisting into a wide smile as he seemed to recognize his sister's voice. The little one's reaction brought a profound joy to Jaehyun's heart, and her smile widened in response.
Jaehyun:"Kyaa! So cute!"
She couldn't contain her excitement as Jaekyun's cute reaction melted her heart even further. Her squeals of joy filled the air, blending with the baby's adorable giggles. Jaekyun responded by gently cupping Jaehyun's cheeks, his little hands exploring her face with a sense of playfulness. The interaction between them was nothing short of heartwarming, their bond growing stronger with every passing moment.
Her excitement knew no bounds as she looked down at her baby brother and exclaimed.
Jaehyun:"Oh my god! He looks like an angel!"
With a wide smile, her mother chuckled and replied affectionately.
"Wow! He must really like you, Jaehyun~"
Her father, who had joined them, sat down next to her mother with a loving smile of his own. He couldn't help but chime in, his voice filled with pride and joy. Jaehyun's heart was brimming with affection as she cradled her baby brother. She continued to speak to him softly, her voice filled with a mix of excitement and wonder.
Jaehyun:"Hey there, little one,"
She whispered gently, her eyes filled with tenderness.
Jaekyun replied with a series of soft coos and giggles, responding to his sister's voice with endearing and innocent noises. Her parents watched on with delight, their hearts full at the sight of the siblings' bond strengthening in that precious moment.
The man's gentle yet firm voice cut through the heartfelt moment, drawing Jaehyun's attention. She looked up from her baby brother to her father's face, his words carrying a weight of responsibility.
"Jaeh... please be a good sister to him, okay?"
She met her father's eyes, a mixture of seriousness and determination flashing across her features. She nodded diligently, her young voice full of conviction.
Jaehyun:"I will, Dad. I promise."
Jaekyun, with his innocent eyes fixated on his sister, seemed to understand the significance of her words. His face, marked by a tiny, yet adorable, toothless smile, seemed to acknowledge her promise.
His sister continued to nuzzle her little brother's cheeks, her voice filled with determination and affection.
Jaehyun:"I promise I'll protect you from now on, little brother, okay?"
She reiterated, her words carrying the weight of her commitment. The moment was filled with sibling love and a heartfelt bond that was just beginning to bloom.
Jaehyun's tender actions, coupled with Jaekyun's innocent giggles, brought a warm smile to the faces of their parents. They watched the sweet siblings from a slight distance, their hearts swelling with joy at the sight of the bond blossoming right before their eyes.
"Awww... they're so adorable together,"
The woman whispered, her voice filled with affection. The man nodded, his expression filled with pride.
"Our children... they're so precious."
***
The memories rushed through Lena's mind, her heart heavy with a mix of emotions. She felt the weight of nostalgia wash over her as she whispered his name, her voice carrying a tinge of sadness.
Lena:"Jaek..."
The words lingered in the air, the name itself carrying a world of meaning and love that only Lena understood in that moment. The bittersweet memories danced through her thoughts, a reminder of the moments shared and the absence that now existed.
Louise:"LENA!"
Lena's reverie was abruptly interrupted by a familiar voice calling out her name. The suddenness startled her, and she hastily wiped away her tears, hoping not to show signs of her emotional state. Turning around, Lena's gaze locked onto her older sister, Louise, hurrying towards her. She tried to compose herself, plastering a faint smile on her face.
Louise:"What are you doing here? And... what's wrong with your face?!"
She attempted to brush off Louise's concern, not wanting to delve into the emotional depths that her reminiscing had stirred up. She offered a dismissive response, trying to downplay the situation.
Lena:"It's nothing,"
She replied, her smile faltering slightly.
Her elder sister's perceptive gaze, however, saw through Lena's facade. She frowned, clearly not satisfied with the vague explanation. Though, not entirely convinced but respecting her sister's reluctance to discuss the matter, accepted Lena's response for now. She grabbed Lena's hand and forcefully dragged her back towards the mansion.
Louise:"Come on, it's lunch time,"
She said, her tone leaving no room for argument.
Lena, caught off guard by Louise's sudden action, stumbled momentarily before finding her footing and walking alongside her sister. Her thoughts were still weighed down by her reminiscences, but she knew better than to resist Louise's determined pull.
***
AT NIGHT
The atmosphere at the dinner table was relaxed, filled with the sounds of cutlery clinking against plates and casual conversations. The meal unfolded with a sense of normalcy, the family enjoying each other's company and the delicious food on their plates.
However, amidst the pleasantries and the clinking of glasses, the peaceful ambiance was suddenly interrupted by a noise that pierced through the room, catching everyone's attention.
???:"Hello~ Everyone!"
The sudden entrance of the blond-headed woman left everyone in a mix of surprise and confusion. The unexpected guest, the Duchess Luna, had burst through the dining room door, announcing her presence with a joyful exclamation.
James and Amelia, seated at the head of the table, were the first to react. Their eyes widened in surprise, their faces registering a mix of disbelief and curiosity. The sudden interruption shattered the peaceful atmosphere, and the room fell into a hushed silence as all eyes slowly turned towards the newcomer.
The room grew even more tense as James, struggling to maintain a composed facade, addressed the duchess with a mixture of confusion and forced politeness. His smile attempted to mask the underlying nervousness, but the unexpected visit had clearly caught him off guard.
James:"What are you doing here, Duchess?" he inquired, his words carrying hints of surprise and a touch of anxious curiosity.
The Duchess, unfazed by the stunned expressions, smiled mischievously and took a step closer to the head of the table, her gaze sweeping across the assembly like a cat eyeing its prey.
Luna:"Oh... I'm just dropping by to see how are you all doing. When I heard the about your new family member I wanted to congratulate you personally"
The Duchess words hung in the air, a playful tone underlying her statement. Her unexpected visit, she claimed, was motivated by a desire to offer her personal congratulations on the arrival of the new family member.
Still taken aback by the sudden intrusion, managed a polite response, his smile faltering slightly.
James:"Oh... Thank you for your congratulations, Duchess."
His wife, the gracious hostess, chimed in with a forced smile.
Amelia:"It's unexpected but... we appreciate your visit."
Luna:"So where's the baby I want to see her!"
Her eagerness to see the newborn baby had her impatiently asking about her location. Her insistence and lack of proper etiquette raised eyebrows, and George, realizing the need for a more diplomatic approach, quickly interjected.
George:"Now, now, please excuse my wife's behavior."
He shot Luna a stern look, silently pleading for her to mind her manners. The atmosphere in the room was tense, filled with a mix of curiosity and slight embarrassment at the duchess's forward behavior.
A young boy, with striking blonde hair and piercing green eyes, emerged from behind the duchess, his presence bringing a sense of calm in his wake. He stood by his mother's side, pleading with her to contain her enthusiasm.
???:"Mother, please calm down..."
He whispered, attempting to rein in the duchess's exuberant demeanor. The sudden appearance of the young boy seemed to have a calming effect on the atmosphere, and everyone's attention shifted towards him, curiosity piqued by his unexpected intervention.
George:"Sorry for the intrusion".
The tension abating somewhat, James, ever the gracious host, signaled to the maids to prepare the newly arrived guests a place at the table.
James:"It's fine, please, have a seat."
The maids, accustomed to their roles, immediately attended to the needs of the new guests, their movements almost like clockwork. They prepared seats and offered refreshments, their practiced efficiency creating the illusion of seamless hospitality despite the unexpected situation.
Amelia, ever the gracious host, took the initiative to extend an offer, proposing that the chef prepare a meal for their unexpected guests. However, the duchess promptly refused, insisting that tea would suffice.
Luna:"Oh, no... We've already eaten, so tea will be enough."
The duchess responded, waving off the suggestion with a dismissive gesture. Amelia, taken slightly off guard by the duchess abrupt refusal, nonetheless nodded in understanding. She signaled to the maids, who quickly set about preparing tea for the guests.
The duchess gaze fixated on the baby cradled in Amelia's arms, leaned in closer, a wide smile spreading across her face.
Luna:"Is she perhaps Mona?"
She inquired, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. Amelia, gently holding the infant, allowed the duchess a closer look, her protective instincts evident. The baby, with her innocent eyes and delicate features, seemed oblivious to the attention she was drawing. She simply cooed softly, her small hand grasping one of Amelia's fingers in a tender hold.
Her response, a simple yet affirmative, confirmed the duchess's question.
Amelia:"Yes,"
She replied, her voice carrying a tinge of pride and affection. She adjusted her hold on the baby, gently running a finger against the infant's soft cheek. The baby, with her tiny features and unblinking eyes, remained blissfully unaware of the conversation going on around her. She continued to coo softly, her small hand holding onto Amelia's finger in a delicate grip.
James:"Is that your son?"
He directed his attention to the young boy sitting beside the duchess, was curious about his identity. He inquired about the boy's relation to them.
George responded, introducing his son as Jason, revealing that he was the same age as one of their own children, Louise. Hearing his father's request, took a step forward and offered a polite greeting.
Jason:"Greetings,"
He said politely, his manners impeccable. The table was filled with a mix of admiration and curiosity as the boy completed his perfect bow. James and the others exchanged glances, impressed by his poise and grace beyond his years.
Lena, however, watched with a different reaction. Her gaze was measured and guarded as she observed the young boy, her thoughts concealed behind a stoic expression.
The conversation shifted as James expressed admiration for the young boy's maturity. He then posed a curious inquiry about the whereabouts of the duchess's second son.
James:"Where is your second son?"
The duke promptly responded, explaining that the second son was currently at the royal castle, engaging in a tea party with the princess.
James:"Ah... I see".
He felt the weight of the children's curious stares, was abruptly snapped back to reality. He let out an embarrassed cough, realizing that he had momentarily forgotten the proper introductions.
James:"Oh right...!"
Their father exclaimed, clearing his throat. He looked around at his children, who had been awaiting their chance to greet their guests.
James:"Please introduce yourselves,"
He instructed, his voice tinged with expectation. Louise, with a mix of nervousness and politeness, stepped forward to offer her introduction. She bowed her head respectfully, a hint of trepidation in her voice.
Louise:"N-nice to meet you, I'm Louisette Dunham."
The duchess and duke smiled warmly at Louise's introduction, impressed by her polite demeanor despite her obvious nervousness. The atmosphere in the room softened, the tension easing as the children took their turns to introduce themselves.
Her brother, his nerves clearly getting the best of him, took a bold step forward to introduce himself. He managed a nervous stutter, his words punctuated by a drop of sweat trickling down his brow.
Thomas:"It's a pleasure to meet you, I'm Thomas Dunham."
His attempt at composure was admirable, but his obvious nervousness was palpable. The duchess and George couldn't help but find his stuttering endearing, their smiles growing wider in response to the young boy's anxiousness.
Contrary to the slightly nervous demeanor of her older siblings, Lena approached the introduction with a sense of composure and confidence. She offered a polite smile as she spoke, her words imbued with a touch of sarcasm.
Lena:"It's a pleasure to meet you, Though, we did meet this morning."
The duchess and duke regarded Lena with a mixture of surprise and curiosity at the girl's self-assuredness compared to her siblings' nervous greetings.
Contrary to the slightly nervous demeanor of her older siblings, Lena approached the introduction with a sense of composure and confidence. She offered a polite smile as she spoke, her words imbued with a touch of sarcasm.
Lena:"It's a pleasure to meet you, Though, we did meet this morning."
The duchess and duke regarded Lena with a mixture of surprise and curiosity at the girl's self-assuredness compared to her siblings' nervous greetings. Duke Dran welcomed the entire Dunham family with a warm smile. He lifted his teacup to his lips, taking a small sip before continuing the conversation.
George:"The pleasure is all ours,"
He responded, his words tinged with politeness. The atmosphere at the table was a mix of formality and curiosity, the meeting of two noble families unfolding with careful politeness and underlying intrigue. The duke caught off guard by Luna's unexpected comment, began to sip his tea politely. However, his composure was quickly shattered when Luna's question left her lips. He abruptly spat out the tea, his face turning a bright shade of red.
Luna:"DARLING... Can we...?"
He looked at his wife with a mix of surprise and embarrassment, his composure all but shattered. The children exchanged curious glances, the air in the room heavy with anticipation.
His face still flushed and his voice filled with flustered embarrassment, snapped at his wife. He pleaded for her to restrain herself, his concern about the children's presence apparent in his words.
George:"Don't say such things in front of the children!"
He exclaimed, his voice a mixture of shock and mortification. The room went eerily quiet, the children's curiosity piqued by the sudden tension between the pair, while the duchess simply chuckled, seemingly finding the situation quite amusing.
Realizing the awkward atmosphere that had enveloped the room, James took a moment to address the children and instruct them to forget what they had just witnessed.
James:"Everyone... please forget what you just heard..."
He implored, his voice steady and authoritative. The children nodded obediently, their wide eyes fixed on James, still trying to comprehend the situation. The duchess hid her smirk behind her tea cup, clearly entertained by the unfolding scene.
Lena, watching her parents engage in conversation with the Drans, couldn't help but wonder about the closeness that had developed between them. Her thoughts were interrupted as her attention shifted towards Jason, who sat nearby. She observed him intently, her eyes curious and slightly intense, as she tried to gauge his personality and mannerism.
Her gaze remained fixed on Jason, her thoughts a churning mix of intrigue and wariness. As she sized him up silently, her mind worked through the implications of his presence.
Lena:"(So this is Jason, the older brother of the villain Edmund, I remember from the game that he appeared when his brother was about to be exiled. His element is... lightning, right?)"
Her expression remained neutral, her eyes narrowing slightly as she continued to study him from across the table.
Louise:"Lena, why are you staring at master Jason? Do you perhaps have a crush on him!?".
Her older sister's sudden question caught Lena off guard, and she shot her a look of surprise and mild annoyance. Her cheeks tinged slightly with embarrassment, she quickly shook her head in denial.
Flustered by Louise's question, protested vigorously. Her cheeks flushed as she emphatically denied any romantic interest. Her denial was heard by everyone, the room falling into a momentary silence.
Lena:"W-what!? No way! He's way out of my league!"
She exclaimed, her embarrassment clear in her voice. The others, taken slightly off guard by Lena's flustered reaction, watched the exchange with curious interest.
Lena:"Umm... I'll go to my room now, good night!".
***
As Lena ascended the stairs to her room and closed the door behind her, a sense of relief washed over her. Finally, some privacy and solitude after the eventful evening. The click of the lock signaled her desire for solitude, as she took a deep breath and leaned back against the door. The silence of her room enveloped her, offering a brief respite from the whirlwind of emotions and interactions from earlier. With the door firmly locked, Lena had the space to gather her thoughts and process everything that had just happened.
Lena:"I want to throw myself into the abyss!"
As she tossed herself into her bed and buried her head into the pillow, a mix of emotions boiled within her. Frustration, embarrassment, and the lingering effects of the earlier interaction all swirled together, leaving her feeling overwhelmed. The soft fabric of the pillow muffed the sounds of her muffled screams, her emotions pouring out as she vented her feelings into the fabric. The moment passed, and Lena slowly lifted her head off the pillow, panting softly and feeling a mixture of relief and exhaustion. The scream had served as a release, allowing her to let go of some of the tension that had built up throughout the evening.
She closed her eyes, willing herself to put the day's events behind her and find some rest. The exhaustion crept in, the adrenaline of the evening finally wearing off. She breathed deeply, attempting to quiet her restless thoughts and focus on the simple act of sleeping.
Lena:"Let's forget about it... and sleep,"
She whispered to herself. With each breath, the tension in her body eased, as Lena allowed the fatigue to wash over her. Lena reassured herself, hoping for a better tomorrow as she prepared to drift off to sleep. The words, filled with determination and optimism, echoed in her mind.
Lena:"Tomorrow is going to be a better day..."
Her eyelids grew heavy, and slowly, she surrendered to sleep, the day's events fading into the background as she entered the realm of dreams.