Love's Unexpected Awakening Elowen's Choice novel Chapter 75

Chapter 75 Ripples in the Palace

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Alaric had stayed up far too late reading Tales of Luminara, only to be tormented by vivid, restless dreams.

He’d slept poorly and planned to nap at midday to recover. His head had just touched the pillow when a servant roused him.

“Your Highness, His Majesty summons you.”

A command from his father could not be ignored. Alaric dragged himself up, stifling his exhaustion, and went.

Upon arrival, Theodric immediately launched into news from Duskmoor Manor.

“For years, I urged your uncle to make that courtyard a proper home. He never listened. Now? Dressing rooms, wardrobe chambers, plans to plant trees and flowers…” Theodric beamed. “It seems marriage truly does work wonders.”

Alaric stiffened, his sleepiness evaporating, replaced by a strange, hollow feeling.

Uncle Cassian is going to such lengths for Elowen?

Theodric mused, “You and Elowen grew up together. I always thought she’d be your princess. If that had happened, it would be you arranging a home for her now.”

A peculiar, sour ache twisted in Alaric’s chest.

“But you didn’t care for her, and it seems her heart belongs to your uncle.” Theodric’s expression turned curious. “Though I do wonder, when did Elowen develop this affection for Cassian? They barely met before. She never mentioned him.”

Alaric forced a tight smile, his mood darkening. “I’m not sure, Father. Perhaps she heard tales of Uncle’s military exploits and developed an admiration from afar.”

Theodric nodded slowly. “That could be.”

He sighed with genuine warmth. “Regardless, as long as Elowen is happy, I can feel I’ve done right by the Hales.”

Alaric remained silent.

Theodric’s gaze sharpened, focusing on him. “Speaking of which, you’re not getting any younger. Elowen is married now. It’s past time you settled down. Your mother has pestered me

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12:47 Thu, Feb 12

Chapter 75 Ripples in the Palace

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endlessly on your behalf, hence the verse salon. So many young ladies attended, I hear, each one fresh as a budding flower. Didn’t a single one catch your eye?”

At the mention of the salon, only Elowen’s face surfaced in Alaric’s mind.

He suppressed a faint frown. “There was one, Father. Lady Daphne-not only beautiful but also… exceptionally talented.”

“Oh? Who’s she?”

“Lord Chancellor Galen Garrett’s daughter.”

Theodric’s expression shifted, a flicker of disinterest passing through his eyes.

He wasn’t fond of Galen-the man was an opportunist, a sycophant with a reputation for corruption.

But statecraft required using such men. As long as Galen performed his duties, his petty embezzlements could be overlooked-so long as he didn’t touch the Crown’s treasury.

Alaric continued, “She is also the author behind the pen name ‘Azure,’ the writer of Tales of Luminara.”

At this, Theodric’s eyes lit up. “Is that so? Galen’s daughter is Azure?”

Alaric nodded. “Indeed.”

Theodric chuckled, clapping his hands together. “Well, I never would have guessed Galen capable of raising such a literary daughter. You’re interested in her? Good. Have you made plans to meet outside the palace?”

Alaric shook his head. “Not yet.”

“Perfect. You’re still suspended from court, with time on your hands. Go into the city. Invite Lady Daphne out. Spend time together, get to know each other. If it seems suitable, we can settle the marriage.”

Alaric blinked, taken aback. “Isn’t that… a bit fast?”

Theodric waved a dismissive hand. “Do you think you’re still a child? The Garretts are a respectable enough family. And the girl has genuine talent. Marrying her would give you a capable lady for the Wing, freeing you to focus on state affairs. Then, I can begin entrusting

with the realm’s weightier matters to you

peace

of mind.”

The realm’s weightier matters…

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