The academy's garden was breathtaking at night.
With street lamps casting a golden glow over neatly trimmed hedges and flowering plants.
The cobblestone paths shimmered faintly under the light of the moon.
And the gentle hum of crickets filled the cool air.
Noah Ashbourne walked slowly, his polished shoes tapping softly against the stone.
He wasn't late intentionally—
He just didn't see the urgency in attending a tea party hosted by his so-called fiancée.
Maya Brentall had sent her maid to deliver the invitation.
A delicate envelope adorned with her family's crest.
The maid's polite words had done little to hide the underlying disdain in her tone.
It was no secret that Maya disliked Noah.
But he had come anyway, curiosity gnawing at him.
Reaching the designated area, Noah's gaze fell upon Maya.
She sat at a small round table draped in white linen.
A porcelain tea set arranged meticulously on top.
