Their Hidden Princess (Zora) novel Chapter 143

**TITLE: Where Sleeping Rivers Dream We Follow Trails Toward Tomorrow by Evan Milesa Cade 143**

It was an unexpected turn of fate that found him hauling some pompous jerk’s luggage through a castle that once belonged to the wolves. His parents had met a tragic end during an uprising that had been swiftly quelled, leaving him to navigate the world without their guidance. He had never known their warmth or love, and for the first twenty years of his existence, he had wandered through life parentless. Yet, amidst the solitude, he was not entirely alone.

After he set down the cumbersome bags, he made his way down the long, echoing corridor toward an intricately designed silver door that gleamed in the dim light. He rapped gently on the surface, the sound barely breaking the silence, and waited for the invitation to enter. Moments later, he pushed the door open and stepped inside.

The room was filled with an ethereal glow, and there stood another pale woman, her striking red eyes mirroring those of Renault. But unlike him, her hair was as white as freshly fallen snow. It was arranged artfully atop her head in elaborate braids and folds, giving her an almost regal appearance. She stood on a small stage, clutching a corset against her chest while two other women worked diligently to lace her into it. As she lifted her gaze, a gentle smile graced her lips, instantly warming the atmosphere.

“Hello, Valentin,” she greeted softly, her voice a melodic whisper that resonated in the quiet room. At the sound of his name, the two women paused, both looking up with wide, cheerful smiles that lit up their faces.

“Val!” one of the women exclaimed, her voice bubbling with excitement. She dropped the laces of the corset and rushed toward him, her puffy red curls bouncing with each step. As she collided with him, he let out a soft “oof,” laughter bubbling up as he embraced her warmly.

“Hey, Tori,” he replied, his heart swelling with affection for his spirited friend.

His gaze shifted to the other woman across the room. She shared the same vibrant red hair as Tori, but hers was sleek and straight, cascading down her back like a waterfall. Her features were softer, gentler, and when their eyes met, a blush crept across her cheeks, prompting her to quickly avert her gaze back to the corset she was fastening.

“Victoria,” the pale woman, Aveline, drawled, her voice a mix of authority and warmth. “Please assist your sister. I believe Valentin is here to inform me that I’m going to be late for dinner with our esteemed guests.”

“I am,” Valentin confirmed, stepping further into the room and gently nudging Victoria back toward Aveline. She complied willingly, darting across the space with a sense of urgency. Upon reaching Aveline, she sighed heavily, a hint of concern etched on her delicate features.

“Miss Aveline,” she began, her voice laced with earnestness. “Please promise me you’ll bring up the treatment of the wolves tonight? I know you’ve gone through my proposal.”

“I did,” Aveline replied, a slight jolt passing through her as Victoria tightened the corset, lifting her chest high with a determined tug. “I will certainly mention it to Francois and Renault. I understand how much it means to you. However, I cannot guarantee any outcomes.”

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