~ Isabella’s POV

I woke up feeling refreshed, the memory of Lucian’s kiss still lingering in my mind. I quickly shook the thought away, knowing I had to focus on my duties. After taking a warm bath and getting dressed, I was ready to start my day. But as soon as I stepped out of my room and into the hallway, something felt... different.

Instead of the usual cold glances or snide comments from the maids, they all smiled at me. One after the other, they greeted me politely, their eyes warm and friendly. I blinked in surprise, unsure of what was going on. This wasn’t normal at all. Usually,...