Ever since John's statement, a heavy silence had been lingering over the Smith family.
He hadn't stayed for long after breaking the news. Just a few quiet words, a short bow to Rowan and Daliah, then with a grief-stricken heart, he departed—leaving behind a storm.
Alice remained unconscious, lying on her bed like someone between life and death. Her pale face twitched occasionally, as if trapped in a nightmare she couldn't wake up from.
Inside the estate, sorrow lingered like a thick mist. No one dared speak too loud. Servants walked slowly. Even the birds outside seemed quieter.
Rudeous stood in the hallway with his younger brother, Rion. The two of them had just finished speaking with Prince Rowan and Princess Daliah.
A few moments back…
"The royal palace is too far," Rion said. "And the princess… she doesn't look ready for another long journey."
Rowan thought for a while before nodding in agreement. He understood what it meant to hold back tears in public.
