Chapter 2

“This dress is Bragi’s latest design—perfect for a wedding, don’t you think?” Viola’s words dripped with smugness as she watched me, searching for a reaction.

“It’s lovely. It suits you,” I replied simply.

My composure seemed to unsettle Ken, whose brow furrowed. “Why were you meeting with my father?” he demanded. Without waiting for an answer, he continued, “I’ve already announced my engagement to Viola online. Even if you went to him complaining, it wouldn’t change anything.”

Ken, usually refined and graceful, spoke harshly, almost oppressively. I met his gaze steadily. “I was discussing New Year’s arrangements with Uncle Johnson.”

I turned to leave, but before I could reach my room, familiar footsteps followed.

“Calista, I apologize. I shouldn’t have been so harsh.” Ken’s voice had softened as he produced a red headband from his pocket. “Look what I brought you.”

My heart clenched. Months ago, I’d mentioned liking this style of headband. Ken had bought one then, but he’d given it to Viola, who’d dismissed it as outdated and discarded it. Now he presented it to me as if it were new.

“Keep it. I don’t want it.”

Ken’s patience thinned. “Why are you being so difficult?”

Viola intervened, placing a delicate hand on Ken’s arm. “Don’t be too hard on her, Ken. She’s still young,” she cooed. Then, with practiced sympathy, she turned to me. “Are you upset because we didn’t invite you to the movies? We’ll all go together next time.”

Her words were honey-sweet, but her actions contradicted them. While ostensibly comforting me, she dug her nails into my skin when Ken wasn’t looking.

“After all,” she added with a sugary smile, “everyone knows you’re Ken’s favorite. There’s no need to be jealous.”

Pain shot through my arm, and I recoiled instinctively. “What are you doing?”

Viola’s response was theatrical—she collapsed to the ground, tears streaming down her face. “What did I do wrong?”

Ken rushed to her side, helping her up with tender concern. “Are you hurt?”

“I’m fine,” Viola sniffled. “It must have been my own clumsiness. Calista didn’t do anything wrong.”

My fists clenched. “She pinched me. I just pulled away—I never pushed her.”

Ken’s expression hardened. “Enough! Viola would never hurt anyone. Why are you doing these things?” The ice in his voice cut deep.

Viola whimpered, clutching her ankle. “Ken, my ankle…”

Without another glance in my direction, Ken lifted her into his arms. As he carried her toward the house, I heard him mutter, “I’ve spoiled her too much.”

“Don’t blame her, Ken,” Viola’s voice drifted back. “She probably feels like I’m taking you away…”

I stood rooted to the spot, watching them disappear. Over Ken’s shoulder, Viola’s eyes met mine, glinting with victory. For the first time, I truly felt defeated.