The private lounge was quiet, filled with the faint scent of roses from the garden below. Lady Marriane Thorne poured herself a glass of deep red wine, swirling it once before looking across at Alex. Her smile carried the same mixture of grace and sharp wit she always seemed to wear when dealing with him.
"You've grown," she said, studying him with eyes too keen to ever be simply admiring. "Not just stronger in mana, but sharper up here." She tapped a gloved finger against her temple.
Alex inclined his head politely. "Strength without foresight is wasted. That's why I asked you here."
She arched a brow, intrigued. "Then tell me, what matter could possibly pull you away from your newfound victory and the adoration of your friends?"
Alex's gaze hardened, the playful warmth in his features dimming to something much more calculating. "The Dukedom of Veymore. I want you to dig into its fall — the Duke's sudden death, the exile of his family. If their punishment was truly deserved, or if another hand forced it."
Marriane stilled, her wine forgotten. For the briefest flicker of a moment, her poise cracked. "That is dangerous curiosity, Alex."
"Dangerous truths often hide behind convenient lies," Alex replied evenly.
Her lips curved, not in dismissal but in respect. She leaned back, eyes narrowing as if weighing him anew. "You know, most young nobles spend their holidays chasing after pretty faces or flaunting themselves in dueling arenas. But you… you come to me asking about a dukedom that no longer exists."
Alex's faint smirk held no apology. "I'm not most nobles."
Marriane laughed softly, shaking her head. "No, you are not. And that's why people should be careful around you, Alex Rosetta. You're more dangerous than you let on."
He met her gaze steadily. "Will you help me?"
For a moment, silence stretched between them. Then she tipped her glass toward him in a silent toast. "Very well. There's one man left who may know the truth — Lord Grevan. They say he was one of the last citizens of Veymore… though his mind is not what it once was. If anyone recalls the real story, it will be him."
"Then I'll speak with him," Alex said firmly.
"No," Marriane corrected, her tone both gentle and commanding. "We'll speak with him. If you're diving into this pit, you'll need someone who understands the weight of noble games. Consider me your partner — at least for this piece of the board."
Alex allowed himself the barest smile. "A partner I can trust, then."
Her eyes softened, the respect genuine now. "Don't make me regret it, Rosetta."
Author's Note 💌✨
Okay but HELLOOO??? Alex Rosetta continues to prove he's not just sexy and strong, but also an intelligent mastermind who always thinks five steps ahead! 🥵🧠 Like, who else casually builds spy networks through fashion deals??? My king. My strategist. My heart.
And let's not forget—Lady Marriane respecting Alex like an equal?? That's chef's kiss perfection. 👑 The mutual admiration, the subtle power play… whew. This boy just keeps slaying in every way possible.
Meanwhile, somewhere out there, Riven is probably glaring at the page like: "Don't forget, I saw him first." 😂 Honestly, they're BOTH lucky bitches and I will keep saying it until the stars burn out.
Nevermind me, I'm just here squealing, sipping tea, and waiting for more drama to unfold. 🫖💃