Rebirth Into My Second Chance novel Chapter 285

In a lavish ballroom adorned with chandeliers and velvet drapes, I found myself exchanging glances with Max, who was known here as Silas. There was something aristocratic about the way his name rolled off the tongue, something that made you sit up a little straighter.

"It's just a fish," Max's deep, gravelly voice broke through the hum of conversation. Princess Harriet, sensing the tension, motioned for more wine to be poured into my glass. I waved it away, but Claude, ever the protector, stepped in. "Apologies, but our Ms. Claire doesn't drink."

Princess Harriet didn't press the matter. Instead, she leaned forward with an inquisitive smile. "Have you made up your mind yet? Is it going to be Kate or Lily?"

"Both," I replied, holding up two fingers as Claude translated my silent decision.

Harriet popped a grape into her mouth, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Did yesterday's incident with Lily scare you speechless?"

I stayed silent, my gaze drifting to Harriet's hand resting possessively on Max's arm, a chill running through me.

"Thinking about stealing my fiancé?" Harriet raised an eyebrow, her voice laced with mockery. "That's not an option, darling. You can take Lily—I'd only count it as a light punishment. If you choose Kate, it'll cost you. But try to take Silas, and it'll cost you everything."

I snorted, unimpressed.

"Our Ms. Claire has her own preferences," Claude interjected smoothly. "Princess Harriet, our lady isn't feeling well today and would like to take her leave."

I was more than ready to escape this charade of love and power, and Harriet didn't stop me, though she did call out as I turned to leave. "Did you enjoy the gift I sent last night?"

I froze. The 'gift' from last night? The man in the Echinacea room...

Claude glanced at me, and I shook my head slightly.

"Our Ms. Claire retired early last night. She wasn't aware of any gifts."

Harriet's laughter rang out, echoing off the walls. "Silas, she didn't appreciate my present."