Elena couldnt help but smile at the place Carlisle brought her too. Sometimes she wished she could see what was inside his head. Elena admired the river as it flowed serenely past them.

What are we doing here?

Presently, the pair were sitting in a small boat. The sunset created a breathtakingly beautiful landscape around them, but she couldnt help but wonder the reason for this location, and looked towards Carlisle.

I told you. We were going to a place where you could focus only on me.

Is that why were really here? Because theres something important that others shouldnt overhear?

Elena stared at him expectantly. They were the only two people on this boat. It was the optimal place for them to have a secret conversation with each other, as all of Carlisles guards were watching from the bank.

Not at all. I just wanted us to be alone.

Sometimes I wonder what youre thinking

Ask me.

What?

If you have any questions, ask me anything. Ill be honest with you.

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She immediately couldnt think of anything to say, and simply stared at him in front of her. The sun was slowly sinking behind Carlisle, spectacular shades of red creeping onto the sky. It was then that Elena really did realize that there was no one else around, and that they existed alone. Maybe that was why the calm sound of the river made her heart shiver. Elena finally opened her mouth to speak.

Whatwhat are you thinking now?

Im thinking of living in a place like this.

This? What do you like about it?

Carlisles eyes flickered. He put one arm on his lap and rested his chin on the other.

Its small.

?

Its small enough that theres no room to run away or look anywhere else.

It sounds a little strange.

How do you interpret it?

That

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Elena glanced at Carlisle as she spoke slowly.

you want to lock something up?

As soon as she finished speaking, Carlisle let out an uncharacteristic burst of laughter. He looked so joyful that Elenas eyes widened.

Your answer is always beyond my imagination. Sometimes I want to know whats inside your head.

Well, it certainly sounded that way to Elenas ears. A small space where one couldnt run away or avert their eyes. Elena felt uneasy when he said it. Carlisle continued with a smile on his face.

But youre wrong. I wouldnt do that, but as I am rather greedy, I want to obtain everything.

What?

Thats why Ill wait. Until it catches up with my heart which is so far ahead.

What on earth

She stared at Carlisle, confused.

I dont understand what you mean. What do you want so badly that youll wait until then?

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Carlisle was about to answer, but then hesitated. It was Elenas first time seeing him like this.

What is he hesitating for?

Carlisle smiled faintly and continued.

I cant say. It might run away.

?

If I said those words, it might reject me. But as you know, I am a greedy manand I cant handle rejection.

Elena looked at him with an unsatisfied expression.

You said you would honestly answer my questions. Why are you stopping when Im curious?

I am being honest that I cant tell you.

Elena was caught off guard by his answer. She didnt think being honest meant not revealing a secret, and it was only right to tell her what it was. Despite Elenas annoyed expression, Carlisle continued on in a good mood.

If you really want to know, think about it again and guess the answer. What do I want badly?

Wait.

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This situation felt similar to when Carlisle wouldnt tell her about their past. Elena reflected on the words she had just spoken with Carlisle. Something he wanted to keep. But it might run away if he talks. It was more than likely that it was a creature that could move by its own will. Elena thought long and hard, then widened her eyes in realization.

Dont tell me.

Carlisles face tensed.

What is it? Is my guess wrong?

Before she finished, Carlisle doubled over and burst into laughter.

What is it? Is my guess wrong?

No, no. Your imagination is much richer than I thought.

Then what is it? Tell me.

Despite Elenas repeated protests, Carlisle could not stop laughing. Soon the red glow of the sun was falling behind them. To anyones eyes, they looked like the perfect pair of lovers.

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*

*

*

Michael was distressed by the fact that Mirabelle and Elena were still absent from the Blaise mansion. Elena had just chosen lavender flowers to decorate the Belluette Square, but the florists had just notified him that they couldnt supply them. And that was only the beginning.

Several other shops had contacted them, informing him that they suddenly couldnt provide their services. Soon after, a fancy mask and a letter was delivered to Michael. It was sent back from Redfield, the Second Prince of the Imperial Family. The eyes of the imperial messenger were noticeably colder than when he first delivered the letter at Blaise mansion.

Please pass this on to Lady Blaise. And tell her that the Second Prince insists on her appearance.

Michael looked at the mask and letter with trembling eyes. No one had to explain to him what was happening here. Redfield had to be behind this sabotage.

My Lady.

It was unclear whether Elena would change her mind and accept the invitation. It was entirely up to her.