Chapter 471

Evangeline had not forgotten, not for a second. However, she had to hand it to Walter, even with a last-minute leading lady swap, he played his part to the hilt. What a show of commitment.

Out of nowhere, the sweet strains of a violin filled the air, weaving a melody that washed over her, stirring something deep within.

Walter caught her eye, as if he could read her every thought, and stood. He leaned in, offering his hand just like he had at the masquerade ball, behind that quirky green frog mask.

Evangeline's heart clenched, caught in an invisible grip, leaving her at a loss for words. Then, his voice broke through her trance.

"Would the beautiful princess honor me with a dance?"

Instinctively, her hand reached for his. However, as she tried to rise, her body froze, caught in the moment's gravity.

"Sorry, I'm in flats today, not exactly dance-floor material."

She quickly looked down, locking away the storm of feelings behind her eyes.

Once upon a time, she would dance in secr