CHAPTER 48: PREPARATION

Lilith could feel butterflies swirl in her stomach, a wave of nervousness rising within her. She couldn’t bring herself to continue eating, even though she was still hungry and the pleasant aroma of the food called to her. Meanwhile, Hades had already returned to his meal, as if nothing had happened.

"I hope you didn’t stop eating because of me. You’re free to eat to your heart’s content, little witch," Hades said, pushing his chair back and rising to his feet.

"A-Alright," she almost whispered, afraid her voice might crack from how nervous she felt.

"Good. Enjoy the rest of your meal," the prince said, walking around her and giving her a gentle pat on the head before leaving the room.

Lilith felt her heart skip a beat at his touch. It had lasted barely a few seconds, but her skin tingled where his hand had been.

Lilith sat frozen until the prince had fully exited the dining room. Only then did she release a deep, shaky breath, wiping her clammy hands on her dress. After taking a moment to calm her overwhelmed heart, she managed a few more bites before feeling full. Rising from her chair, she quietly left the dining room.

Not wanting to return to her chambers just yet, she decided to explore the castle in search of the library. She had never been there before, but she was certain the castle had one—every grand castle did. Turning a corner into a quiet hallway, she admired the artwork lining the walls, each piece more intriguing than the last.

"Lilith!"

She turned at the sound of her name and saw Fiona hurrying toward her. Without hesitation, Fiona wrapped her in a warm, comforting hug.

"I’m so glad to see you are well. I wanted to visit, but that part of the castle was off-limits. I thought of asking Madam Thalia to check on you, but she’s been too busy. How are you feeling? Has the fever passed?"

Lilith smiled softly. "I feel much better now. Thank you for your kindness. How have you been?"

"I’ve been good. Though we hve all been swamped with preparations for the masquerade ball. It’s such short notice for a royal event, but who are we to question the prince’s plans?" she said with a light chuckle.

"Oh, the ball. I can only imagine," Lilith said. "Although I have no idea how to plan a ball, I’m sure a week is far too little time for all the preparations."

"I completely agree," Fiona said, then paused, her eyes lighting up. "Speaking of the ball—do you have anything to wear? Or rather, what do you plan on wearing?"

"Unfortunately, I don’t have anything suitable for a ball. I’ve never had much interest in them. I’d honestly prefer to stay tucked away in the comfort of my room," Lilith admitted.

"Oh, dear goodness. That is simply unacceptable!" Fiona gasped, her tone playful yet dramatic. "Royal balls are quite the experience. You get to meet nobles and people of high status. Who knows? You might even meet your strong knight in shining armor." She wiggled her brows teasingly at Lilith.

"I’m not in search of a knight in shining armor," Lilith replied with a small laugh. "And certainly not a wealthy one. I highly doubt a man of status would spare a second glance at a maid like me."

Fiona scoffed and rolled her eyes. "Well, I beg to differ. Once a man is taken by your beauty, and love grips his heart, no title or status would stop him from making you his bride. I, for one, still hope to marry a wealthy man someday."

"If that’s what you want, I wish you all the best," Lilith said with a sincere smile.

"Well, thank you for the wishes. Were you headed somewhere?" Fiona asked.

"I was trying to find the library," Lilith answered with a sigh. "I thought maybe a book would keep me company for a while."

"Books?" Fiona scrunched her nose in distaste. "That sounds terribly boring. I have something far more exciting to pass the time. The florist is delivering sample flowers today for the ballroom decorations. Madam Thalia and Lord Lucian will be choosing which ones to use. Doesn’t that sound fun?"

"I suppose it does," Lilith replied with a polite smile.

"Then come with me!" Fiona said cheerfully, wrapping her arm around Lilith’s and gently pulling her along toward the courtyard behind the kitchen, where the flowers would be arranged.

"Have you decided what you’ll be wearing to the ball?" Lilith asked as they walked.

"Yes, I have. I got the perfect dress from an old friend just last week, and I think it’ll be stunning for the occasion," Fiona replied with a grin. "Though I’m still searching for the perfect shoes. I’ll have to stop by the market to find them. Shall we go together?"

Lilith paused for a moment, considering. She had never been to the market before, and it seemed like a perfect opportunity to finally see it for herself. "Yes, I’d love to go with you," she said with a small smile.

"Thank you so much. I’ll let you know the day I plan on going," Fiona said with a grin of excitement.

"Very well then," Lilith replied with a soft smile.

The two girls made small talk in the courtyard as they waited for the arrival of the flowers. When the florist finally arrived, the courtyard bloomed with vibrant colors—red, yellow, white, purple, and green—bringing the flowers to life. Lilith was mesmerized. She had never seen so many flowers before and could barely recognize any of them.

The florist, kind and cheerful, took the time to name each flower while speaking mostly to Lord Lucian and Madam Thalia. After much consideration, they eventually chose the dark purple orchids—a difficult decision between them and the deep red roses, both of which Lilith found breathtaking.

She could hardly wait to see how beautiful the ballroom would look with a cascade of those exquisite flowers.

After spending a lovely afternoon with Fiona, Lilith returned to her bedroom at sunset. Still full from lunch, she skipped dinner and fell into bed, ready to welcome the pull of sleep.