Katelyn settled gracefully onto the chair Sage had pulled out for her, offering him a polite nod of thanks as he took the seat beside her.
Across the table, his two younger sisters could hardly contain their excitement, their bright eyes fixed on the Alpha Princess as if her very presence turned the evening into a celebration.
"Your Highness, we prepared everything to your taste. I truly hope you'll enjoy the meal," Blythe, Sage's stepmother, said warmly, her tone carrying both respect and a hint of pride.
Katelyn returned her smile. "Of course. Thank you." She reached for her spoon just as the maids glided forward, setting fragrant dishes before each guest. The room soon filled with the soft clinking of silverware and low chatter, yet Katelyn's mind wandered elsewhere, back to thoughts of Karmen, pulling her away from the present moment.
