Chapter 45: Back at Home

Regina’s POV

As I walked into Alicia’s hotel, I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself.

The luxurious lobby was even more intimidating now that I wasn’t just passing through—I had to blend in, become Alicia for real.

I adjusted my posture, squared my shoulders, and headed toward the elevator.

As the doors slid shut behind me, I caught my reflection in the mirrored walls.

With my pale gold hair and Alicia’s refined clothing, I looked the part. But on the inside, my heart was pounding.

When I stepped out of the elevator and approached Alicia’s suite, two guards stationed by the door immediately straightened up, their eyes widening with surprise.

…Did they sense something?

My stomach twisted into a knot, but I forced a smile and nodded at them, hoping they couldn’t hear the rapid thud of my heart.

“Lady Alicia, you’re back!” one of them cried his tone a mix of relief and concern. “You had us worried when you disappeared a couple of days ago.”

I swallowed hard, keeping my voice stead