Chapter 3

The decor of the grand hall was nothing short of exquisite. Much like the opulent halls of legendary kings, it overlooked a vast garden, lovingly tended by Taya's stepmother, who had a particular passion for flowers. The colors bloomed vibrantly, casting a warm glow that complemented the atmosphere of celebration. 

As the guests mingled, one lady exclaimed, "Oh my God, Lucy, you've outdone yourself! Every party you throw just keeps getting better!" She was addressing Taya's stepmother, Lucy, who was busily engaging with the guests and trying to ensure that everything went smoothly, especially since Taya had yet to make her appearance.

Lucy adjusted her dress, determined to fetch Taya herself. However, she found herself intercepted by her daughter's fiancé, who had arrived with the younger brother of the crown prince. With important guests attending from near and far kingdoms, it was imperative to honor their presence, especially as many had come to glimpse the famed beauty of the kingdoms of Rose, who had been hidden away for far too long. 

The excitement among the guests was palpable. Women from high-ranking families exchanged whispers, eager to gloat or satisfy their curiosity about Taya, who had spent years concealed within the walls of her family's estate. 

At that moment, Taya began to descend the grand staircase, her movements graceful and deliberate. With every step, she seemed to capture the hearts of the onlookers. Dressed in a stunning gown that elegantly revealed her back and accentuated her curves, she was a vision of beauty, captivating like the moon in the night sky. 

Yuray, her older sister, watched with a mixture of disbelief and envy as Taya approached. "Mom, did you see her? Am I dreaming? Is this really Taya?" she exclaimed, her voice barely above a whisper.

Lucy, caught in a swirl of emotions, was torn between pride and confusion. Why hadn't Taya worn the dresses she had chosen for her? At that moment, the sweet sounds of violinists filled the air, playing a beautiful melody to accompany Taya's entrance. The brother of the crown prince stepped forward to greet her, but she merely brushed past him, radiating confidence and charm that dared anyone to challenge her.

"Did she just refuse to acknowledge the crown prince's brother? He's the best in the arena; what is this arrogance about?" a woman commented, causing Taya to turn her attention towards her. 

With an air of defiance, Taya approached the woman, who held a glass of wine. In a bold move, Taya took the glass from her hand, raised it high, and called for attention. "Ladies and gentlemen," she announced, tapping the wine glass with the jewelry bracelets that sparkled brilliantly, drawing the attention of everyone in the hall.

"Thank you all for gathering here. It's my 18th birthday, a momentous occasion. Some of you may wonder why my past birthdays have not been celebrated in such grand style," Taya said, directing her gaze towards her stepmother, whose thin smile concealed treachery.

The guests watched in rapt silence, the atmosphere electric with anticipation. "Of course, you might be curious why the beautiful lady of the Seven Kingdoms of Rose has chosen to appear so suddenly," she continued, her voice steady as she scanned the room, locking eyes with those who had belittled her in her past life. She turned to her father, who was visibly upset, and continued, "The credit belongs to my father, who sees me as nothing but a disgrace. He wishes to rid himself of me as quickly as possible, showcasing me here to settle his gambling debts through an arranged marriage. Isn't that amusing?"

Taking a large sip from the glass, Taya relished the risk she was taking by speaking such words—words that were like poison in the air. She could feel the rage emanating from her father, whose features twisted into a mask of fury.

"Why doesn't someone shut her up?" Yuray hissed into her mother's ear, who was wishing fervently that the ground would open up and swallow Taya whole, desperate to escape the embarrassment unfolding before a member of the royal family.

"Please, don't misunderstand my father's true nature. He's always been like this, squandering money on trivial pursuits. But it's alright; I'm sure he's spent the rest of his savings to put on this party, so enjoy yourselves, ladies and gentlemen," Taya continued, stifling a laugh as she surveyed the men in the room. Many of them were drawn to her, their eyes shamelessly lingering on her figure.

Even the married men seemed unable to avert their gazes. "I know I have a strong and exciting presence, but I assure you, I won't accept any man who thinks he can just throw himself at me," she stated, her eyes locking onto the younger brother of the crown prince, who bit his lip, nodding eagerly, clearly entranced by her charm.

"Mom, she just insulted him! This is disgraceful; she's going to regret this!" Yuray exclaimed loudly, her voice cutting through the tension. The room was thick with charged air, and after Taya's daring words, no one could have believed that this was the pearl the Diduchi family had kept hidden for so long.

"Don't let my words disturb you," Taya said, raising her glass high once more. "The party will continue!" She signaled to the musicians, urging them to resume their melodies while she gracefully made her way to the beverage table, where fine wines awaited.

"None of them will dare to propose to me now. At the very least, I'll keep them all at bay, and my father will never have the chance to compromise me," she murmured, a satisfied smile on her lips. The faces surrounding her were nothing more than hypocrites, and regardless of whether this was her birthday or not, her presence here had become unimportant.

With so many high-ranking guests in attendance, her father wouldn't dare punish her, not while the celebration was in full swing. Taya was determined to make the most of her newfound freedom, relishing in the spotlight she had fought so hard to claim. 

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