The next morning.
An aide bowed respectfully before Lucas Selwyn, the current Duke of Selwyn.
"Your Grace," he said, "the Dowager Duchess has arrived."
Lucas set down his pen and gave a brief nod. "Bring her to the study."
Moments later, Serena entered the room with quiet composure, her steps light but deliberate. She offered a polite curtsy before taking a seat. Lucas, who had been sitting behind his desk, moved to the sofa—opposite of her.
He dismissed the aide with a flick of his hand. "You may leave."
As the door clicked shut, his gaze shifted slightly—toward Dyanne, who had been standing silently behind Serena.
"Give us a moment," he said.
Serena glanced over her shoulder, meeting Dyanne's eyes. With a subtle nod, Dyanne bowed and stepped out.
Now alone, the room grew more tense.
Lucas studied Serena in silence for a beat. His posture was relaxed, but his eyes—sharp and assessing—held the weight of unspoken thoughts.
Serena remained calm, though inwardly alert.
So… what does my stepson truly want?
Lucas cleared his throat, breaking the silence.
"An invitation came from the imperial family."
Serena's brows lifted ever so slightly. The imperial family?
"They're hosting a banquet to celebrate the victory against Astravale," he continued, crossing his legs. "You haven't attended any banquets until now, so I believe it's time you start appearing at such events."
Serena tilted her head, her voice calm but curious. "Why now?"
Lucas gave a half-shrug, his tone neutral. "There's been talk. Whispers about how the House of Selwyn treats its Dowager Duchess. Apparently, those whispers reached the Emperor himself. He personally included your name in the invitation."
Serena blinked. The Emperor…?
That was unexpected. Not only did it mean her existence hadn't been completely forgotten, but someone of his station had taken note of her absence—and of the rumors surrounding her.
She folded her hands in her lap, maintaining her grace. "I don't know the first thing about such banquets."
"Don't worry," Lucas said, waving off her concern. "I'll assign a governess to guide you through it. You'll have proper lessons—etiquette, dress, conversation. Everything you'll need."
He looked at her then, for a moment longer than necessary, as if trying to read what lay behind her composed expression.
Serena gave him a gentle nod. "Very well. I'll attend."
Inside, her thoughts stirred.
A banquet at the imperial palace… Who would've thought I'd step into that world?