บท 113: The Only Kin

A THOUSAND DIFFERENT emotions flitted across Rose Whitaker's face within just a fraction of a second. 

Alice watched from one side, silently taking note of Rose's expressions. The furrowed eyebrows, the pale complexion, and the letter that was crumpled by Rose Whitaker's trembling hands.

"Lady Rose?" Alice called out hesitantly, almost afraid to raise her voice.

Alice's voice was like the crisp chime of a bell under the sway of summer winds. In an instant, Rose Whitaker snapped back to her usual calm composure. She swiveled back to face Alice, her face now devoid of all the panic that had been there just seconds ago. The only reminder of it was the letter in Rose's hands, still crumpled.

"Your Highness," she said, directing her words at Prince Hartley, "could I have some time with Lady Alice?" When Rose noticed the furrow of Hartley's eyebrows and unwillingness to move, she added, "Alone?"

Hartley's posture stiffened.