Katelyn found herself at a loss for further advice.
Leaving Katelyn’s study, Ashlyn retreated to her room, where she lay on her bed, haunted by the image of Sophia’s face—a face that mirrored her own. The uncanny resemblance had always unsettled her. Driven by that feeling, Ashlyn was determined to uncover the truth about whether they shared a blood relationship. This confirmation would also bring her some peace. She would no longer have to speculate wildly whenever she encountered Sophia.
At that moment, Ashlyn’s phone vibrated with an incoming message. She checked it and saw it was from Khalid. His message read, “Don’t overthink things. Get some rest tonight; remember, you have that appointment at the palace tomorrow.”
Initially troubled, Ashlyn couldn’t help but smile at Khalid’s comforting words. She flipped over in bed, clutching her phone as she texted back, “Will do.”
Despite their relationship, Ashlyn still found it surreal to be with Khalid. Sometimes, it felt like a dream she might wake from at any moment.
Another message from Khalid popped up. “Good night, honey.” Those simple words deepened Ashlyn’s smile, filling her with a sense of happiness.
“Good night, honey,” Ashlyn replied, using almost all her willpower.
As soon as she finished typing these words, a wave of embarrassment washed over her. She had just addressed Khalid with such endearment. The sensation felt utterly surreal to her.
Khalid, upon reading the message, experienced a complex mix of emotions. He stared at his phone for a while before setting it down and closing his eyes. Yet, as he tried to rest, images of both Sophia and Ashlyn swirled through his thoughts, keeping him from finding peace. The night slowly faded into morning.
The following day arrived.
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Katelyn decided to join Ashlyn.
Originally, Ashlyn had been afraid of facing the palace visit alone, aware of the potential hostility from Ryanna. Therefore, when Katelyn offered to accompany her, Ashlyn felt a significant sense of relief.
Together, Ashlyn and Katelyn proceeded to meet with the King. As the discussion about her jewelry designs began, Ashlyn’s initial anxiety melted away. Standing before the King, she spoke with clarity and conviction, her earlier fears forgotten.
At that moment, however, Katelyn suddenly stood up.
Katelyn regarded the King and Ashlyn with a practiced smile that graced her features effortlessly. “Excuse me, I’m going to freshen up,” she announced with quiet poise.
The King nodded to Katelyn with a gentle smile.
Ashlyn, having shed her earlier apprehension, remained perfectly composed as Katelyn declared her temporary departure. Far from the clutches of nervousness that had once gripped her, she met Katelyn’s gaze with serene confidence. “Okay.”
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