The next two days unfolded like a perfectly orchestrated illusion, each hour carefully crafted by Caleb with precision, patience, and a level of control that masked the storm raging beneath his calm exterior.
To the outside world Nothing had changed.
He attended meetings.
He walked the halls of the palace with composed authority.
He stood beside his father during council discussions, listening, observing, contributing just enough to maintain the image of the obedient crown prince.
And most importantly—
He played his role.
Flawlessly.
With Sonia, he was attentive—but not too much.
Interested—but never invested.
He allowed her to believe she was winning him over, feeding her just enough attention to keep her satisfied, to keep her guard down, while carefully watching every move, ev
