Chapter 20: Chapter 20: The Banquet and the Past

Seraphina’s POV

The preparations for the banquet consumed my every waking moment. I knew there would be no room for remorse if I appeared at the event. The thought of being discovered as a "fake princess" terrified me, but I couldn’t share my worries with Alfred, not after our argument. So, I kept my fears to myself and focused on learning to dance and mastering social etiquette.

“Wake up, princess. It’s time to start your training.”

I groaned and rolled over in bed, pulling the covers over my head. “Alfred, it’s too early; five more minutes,” I mumbled.

Alfred chuckled softly, his voice closer now. “We have a lot to cover if you’re going to be ready for the banquet. Up and at ’em.”

Reluctantly, I threw off the blankets and sat up, rubbing my eyes. Alfred stood at the foot of my bed, looking impeccably put together as always.