Chapter 17: A Stroll into Uncertainty

**Thelma Zane’s POV** “There will be guests arriving shortly,” my father informed us during dinner. His tone was calm, as always, and I nodded absentmindedly, assuming it was another formal affair. Over the past few weeks, I’d accompanied my parents to meet many dignitaries, so I wasn’t particularly curious. But the moment I saw Aldrich enter the room, accompanied by a tall, unfamiliar man, I nearly choked on my food. If I hadn’t grabbed my glass of water in time, I might have become the first princess to meet her end by choking at dinner. The man walking beside Aldrich bore a striking resemblance to him. His composed demeanor and polished manners led me to deduce that he must be Duke Frank—Aldrich’s father. However, something about the atmosphere felt off. The air was heavy with formality, and no one seemed inclined to break the silence. Even Aldrich, who never missed a chance to tease or provoke me, stood rigid and solemn. I found myself suddenly self-conscious, pushing m