The next afternoon, Alina put the plan in motion. She sent a short note to Dorian through a maid.
I'd like to speak with you. Meet me in the east garden at four. Come alone.
She went to the quieter part of the garden, far away from the sewing circle and sat on a bench, waiting for him. She played with her fingers in her lap, trying to look nervous. But her mind was alert, rehearsing every word.
Dorian arrived exactly at four. He walked in casually, but his eyes moved sharply across the garden. He was suspicious. Just two days ago, she had thrown him out of her room and was now requesting a private meeting.
Something was off, he could feel it.
"Miss Ashworth," he said, stopping a few steps away.
"Sit."
He looked at her with his calculating gaze but eventually sat beside her.
"You asked me to leave your room the other day," he said. "And now you've invited me here alone?"
Alina nodded nervously.
"Should I feel flattered or concerned?"
"Both."
