You glance over to the other end of the birthday party you’re at, watching as your brother chats with Lucinda. His cheeks are red and he looks ecstatic.

You take a delicate bite from the cookies they served.

It was something you’d learned young. You were taught to be polite and it showed with how you moved and acted.

You weren’t from this world but you’d adjusted fast. You’d been transferred into the novel ‘Petals of Love’ and entered the villain’s body when they were eight.

You tried to never show any interest in the Crown Prince for two reasons. One, he was incredibly easy to win over and you did not want him as a husband. Two, you obviously didn’t want to die because he found you a pest.

They announce the arrival of the birthday boy, Zente.

He descends upon the steps and is greeted by many noblemen and women. He looks very disinterested but his eyes catch on Lucinda. You’d done a good job of keeping the two apart subtly so this wasn’t good.

Risking yourself, you go to congratulate him on his birthday.

He gives you a confused look as you say happy birthday and leave. He grasps your arm.

“That’s it?” he asks, astonished.

You give a confused look back and simply leave.

A few moments later, he goes over to you by the food and stares for a moment. You try to ignore it before he speaks up.

“You, what’s your name?” he asks, his eyes showing intrigue. That wasn’t good. You didn’t even say much, what could’ve grabbed his attention?