Awakening Love: Reborn to Be His Duchess Chapter 508: A Lively Gathering

Her bright eyes scanned the crowd, then landed on Elowen.

Her face flushed instantly.

Elowen recognized her. Lyra.

Ignoring the attendant reaching out to help her, Lyra gathered her skirts and hopped down on her own.

She stole another glance at Elowen, cheeks pink, then hesitated and turned toward her brother.

Caelan stepped forward.

Elowen hadn't paid him much attention before, but now that she looked closely, she noticed something striking.

His eyes resembled the king's, clear and steady, yet carrying a natural weight that made him seem older than his years.

He guided Lyra forward and offered a proper bow. "It's good to see you, Cassian, Elowen."

Elowen studied him for a moment. The last time they met, he had been about her height. Now he stood noticeably taller.

She smiled. "No need to be so formal. I heard you might not make it today."

Caelan straightened. "I caught a chill a couple days ago. My mother was concerned I might pass it along, so she sent word ahead. But I've recovered now. And Lyra insisted on coming."

Behind him, Lyra nearly hid herself completely.

Elowen softened her voice. "I'm really glad you did."

Lyra's cheeks deepened in color.

Elowen gestured toward the inner garden. "It's still a bit brisk out here. Let's head inside."

By custom, the gathering was divided. The men were led toward the front hall, while the women gathered in the garden behind the manor.

Cassian guided Caelan and Kaelan away, while Elowen led Aveline and Lyra along a stone path toward the back.

Along the way, Lyra kept sneaking glances at her.

Each time, her face grew warmer, like she was working up the courage to say something but couldn't quite manage it.

Elowen pretended not to notice. "You look well today, Lyra. How has your mother been?"

Lyra answered quickly, "She's doing very well!"

Elowen nodded. "I went through the gifts she sent. I loved every one of them. Be sure to thank her for me."

Lyra hesitated, then admitted softly, "I helped choose some of them."

Elowen's expression lit up. "Then I owe you thanks too. You've got a great eye."

That did it.

Lyra's smile spread fully, lighting up her whole face, her mood lifting into something warm and easy, like the cozy comfort of a sunlit kitchen with something sweet baking in the oven.

By the time they reached the garden, the sound of live music drifted through the air.

The space was wide and elegant, decorated with garlands and banners in festive colors.

A raised wooden stage had been set up in the center, where performers were acting out a lively play.

Rows of polished tables filled the area below, each arranged with small plates, fruit, pastries, and fine tableware.

Many of the noblewomen had already taken their seats, chatting quietly or watching the performance.

With most of the important guests now present, Elowen moved to her place.

Her seat was set directly in front of the stage.

The arrangement followed strict rank. The seat of highest honor beside her should have belonged to Duchess Roland.

Instead, two slightly smaller tables had been squeezed in close, clearly moved there on purpose.

Maerwyn and Elara stood behind them, looking at Elowen expectantly.

Maerwyn spoke first. "I wanted to sit closer to you, so I moved over here. And I didn't want to sit alone, so Elara joined me."

Elara nodded eagerly. "Exactly!"

Elowen's brows drew together slightly as she turned toward Duchess Roland.

Duke Roland, the king's fourth brother, was known for his calm, easygoing nature and complete lack of ambition. His wife, born into a distinguished family, had a warm presence, her gentle features and easy smile giving her an air of quiet contentment.

She met Elowen's gaze with a gracious smile. "Maerwyn is still young. She enjoys a lively setting. And Elara is such cheerful company. It's nothing more than adding another table. Please don't trouble yourself over it. Let them stay."

Elowen understood immediately.

She had no intention of making things difficult, especially where the queen was concerned.

Elowen let out a soft sigh. "You're far too indulgent with them."

Still, since the duchess wasn't bothered, there was no reason to press the matter any further.