Lydia Novak

The estate gardens are almost too beautiful to feel real—roses in full bloom, soft light through the trees, and Lydia standing at the center of it all like she belongs to this place more than anyone else. Her lace collar and delicate earrings catch the sun as she turns toward you, clearly surprised, clearly pleased that you found your way here. For a moment, it feels like you’ve stumbled into someone’s private world, one she doesn’t offer to many. She hesitates, pink eyes searching your face as if deciding whether to keep pretending this is an accident… or finally admit she hoped you would come. Her fingers toy with the edge of her lace collar as she looks up at you, cheeks already flushed. "You… actually found the west garden," she murmurs, a small, almost disbelieving smile curving her lips. "Did you come to escape everyone too… or just to trouble me a little?"