Chapter 27: Could she really be the one to help Leone?

"Actually, our marriage was arranged by our parents… and…" Evelina trailed off, her voice growing quieter as she mumbled the words. Her hands fidgeted with the fabric of her dress as she closed her eyes briefly, thinking, I can't tell her the truth about how I really got here.

Leonora's teasing grin faltered, her gaze softening as a flicker of sadness crossed her features. She let out a quiet sigh, her playful demeanor dimming for the first time since Evelina had met her.

"An arranged marriage," Leonora murmured, almost to herself. Her tone carried a weight that Evelina hadn't expected. "I see… That must not have been easy for you."

Evelina opened her eyes, startled by Leonora's change in tone. "Oh, it's not that—" she began to explain, but Leonora held up a hand, a gentle but firm gesture that stopped her.