ancient for her to catch. She couldn't piece together how she'd ended up back in her room last night-just blurry flashes of the banquet, Lucien's heavy stare, and that old book that had sent

smelled like flowers. "What's your name?" "Alina, my lady." Plain name. Nothing special. But the girl's hands shook a little as she poured the tea, and Celestine could spot fear a mile off. "You're scared of me," she said, keeping her tone light. Alina flinched like she'd been slapped. The teacup clinked loud against its saucer as she set the pot down fast, gripping it tight. "No, my lady," she blurted, too quick. "It's just-" She cut herself off, swallowing hard. Celestine stood, her thin nightgown brushing her skin like a breeze as she walked to the table. She picked up the teacup, breathing in the sweet scent before taking a sip. She let the quiet drag on, watching Alina squirm. "I don't bite, you know." Alina's mouth opened a little, her eyes darting up, surprised. For a second, something else peeked through the fear-maybe curiosity. Celestine smiled, setting the cup down slow and careful. "But I think you already figured that." The girl went rigid, and now Celestine caught it-a spark of something more than just nerves. Like Alina knew something she shouldn't. "Tell me," Celestine said, softer now, almost gentle. "Why'd they put you with me?" Alina's throat bobbed as she swallowed again. She glanced at the door, then back. "I-I don't know, my lady. They don't tell u