Was it a dream?

Vespera didn't know what others thought, but she was incredibly envious. Who wouldn't be jealous of a love like that?

Later, during dinner, Vespera sincerely congratulated Aurora. Aurora teased her, "I heard Alaric's been completely ignoring Elowen because of you?"

Vespera fell silent, unsure of what to say. It seemed everyone had noticed that Alaric liked her, even more than he had ever liked Elowen.

Deep down, Vespera knew her own feelings. She knew she liked Alaric, maybe even loved him to the point of no return. She just wasn't sure if this guy could spend the rest of his life with her.

Alaric and Elowen's history was so well-known that everyone, including Vespera, assumed they'd end up together. So Vespera lacked confidence. She couldn't imagine what Alaric would be like with her instead of Elowen.

Alaric probably sensed Vespera's hesitation. From his perspective, he had put in so much effort, yet Vespera still avoided him.

The dinner was filled with unspoken thoughts. Alaric dra