"I completely forgot about Philemon…" Katherine muttered, scratching her head as a small sigh slipped past her lips.
For a guy who was supposed to be her escort, he sure wasn't doing a great job sticking with her. Then again, she was the one who wandered off like a kid getting distracted by shiny things at the mall.
Making her way back to the carriage, she felt an instant wave of relief when she spotted Aunt Yevon standing beside Philemon, her expression pinched with concern. The bustling streets had been a lot—like, a Black Friday sale level of chaos—but she had somehow managed to navigate her way back. Though, if she was being honest, the whole city still felt like a giant, unfamiliar map she had barely started exploring.
Is there no customer service in this place? No 'lost child' announcements? No escort service to pick me up at the counter?
As she approached, Yevon's face softened into a warm, relieved smile. "You're back," she said, her voice laced with concern. "I was beginning to worry you might lose your way."
Katherine climbed into the carriage, guilt creeping in. "I'm sorry, Aunt Yevon. I got separated from Philemon in the crowd. It was a bit chaotic, but I'm fine. I didn't mean to worry you."
Yevon's smile was full of understanding. "It can be overwhelming at first. But you're home now, and that's what matters."
Turning to Philemon, Katherine gave him an apologetic look. "I'm really sorry, Philemon. I didn't mean to ditch you. The crowd was insane—I lost track of where you were."
Philemon, who had been standing stiffly beside the carriage, visibly relaxed. "I'm just glad you're safe," he said, his voice steady. "I kept looking for you, but it was like searching for a needle in a haystack."
Katherine winced. "Yeah… I should've been more careful. Thanks for waiting for me."
As they settled inside the carriage, Katherine turned her gaze out the window, watching as the busy streets gradually faded into the quieter, more refined parts of the city. But her thoughts? They were spiraling.
What timeline am I in? Where am I in the book's plot? How much am I allowed to mess with this world before the universe files a complaint?
She exhaled, rubbing her temples. She knew she was just a side character—a minor existence. She wasn't supposed to be a game-changer. But sitting around and doing nothing? That wasn't her style. The problem was… how much was too much interference?
Are my parents witches or something? Did they ask a mangkukulam to curse me because I didn't bring them on that vacation? She shook her head. Sorry, Mom, for even thinking that. Your daughter's just overthinking—again.
Her internal monologue was cut short when Aunt Yevon suddenly perked up, her voice taking on an almost mischievous tone.
"Katherine, I have some news that might interest you," she said, clasping her hands together. "The palace is hosting a ball to commemorate the graduates of the school in Athens."
Katherine blinked. "A ball? For the graduates?"
She tilted her head. That was… unexpected. Also, very sosyal.
Aunt Yevon nodded. "Yes. It's a longstanding tradition. Every year, the palace hosts a ball to honor the students who've completed their studies. It's a grand event—celebrated by the graduates and the entire kingdom alike."
Katherine pursed her lips, already picturing the extravagant gowns, glittering chandeliers, and fancy noblemen walking around with wine glasses, talking politics.
Sosyal! I wonder if there'll be any cute guys?
She immediately shook the thought away. Just kidding. Probably.
"Will we be attending?" she asked, feigning mild curiosity while internally thinking about all the free food that was probably going to be there.
Yevon smiled. "Of course. Our family has connections to both the palace and the university. It's only natural that we attend. It's also a good opportunity to observe the kingdom's social landscape."
Katherine let out a slow exhale. Right. High society. Nobles. Politics. Fancy dances. So much room for potential embarrassment.
She knew how to handle people—small talk, pretending to be engaged in a conversation she wasn't interested in, smiling at just the right moments. But this? This was a whole different playing field. She wasn't just walking into some casual social event; she was walking straight into royal territory.
How fancy can this really get? Hope I don't trip on my gown or, worse, spill something on the king.
"I'm not sure I'll fit in," she admitted, pressing her lips together. "I don't even know the customs or what's expected. I've never been to anything like this before."
Aunt Yevon chuckled softly. "It's natural to feel that way. But don't worry, dear. I'll guide you through it. You'll get the hang of things. Just be yourself—people value authenticity."
Katherine nodded, though she wasn't sure that would help her much.
Is it bad if I just go there to eat? I'll just pretend I'm at a Sinulog festival. I'll blend in with the background, grab some food, and quietly enjoy myself.
Before she could dwell on her self-assigned 'feast-first' strategy, Aunt Yevon continued, her tone shifting slightly.
"One of the top students at the university this year is Florante," she said. "He's in his fourth year and is producing exceptional results. Unfortunately, he won't be able to attend the ball, but he's very close to finishing his studies."
Katherine stilled.
"Florante? As in… Florante and Laura? The dude from the book?"
Her brain short-circuited for a second.
"Florante?" she repeated, barely masking her surprise. "The duke's son?"
If I had known I'd end up here, I would've paid more attention to Florante at Laura back in high school. But noooo, I was too busy struggling to stay awake in that class.
Aunt Yevon chuckled. "Yes, dear. He's widely regarded as one of the brightest minds of his generation. His professors hold him in high esteem, and he's expected to achieve great things."
Katherine's mind raced. Florante wasn't just some random noble—he was a major character. One of the book's biggest names. The fact that his name had come up twice today felt… significant.
Her stomach flipped.
"So this is real. This world isn't just loosely based on the book—I'm inside it."
She swallowed hard. "I see. That's a shame that he can't attend."
Was that just a coincidence? Or was fate throwing hints her way?
Katherine mulled over it as the carriage continued moving. Everything was happening fast. She barely had time to process one thing before another was thrown at her.
A palace ball. The kingdom's political scene. Major book characters making their appearance.
And she? She was in the middle of it all.
I shouldn't stress too much about the ball. It's my first day here. Might as well enjoy it while I can.
She exhaled, leaning back against the seat.
Alright. New plan. Hide behind Aunt Yevon. Grab some food. Avoid getting dragged into noble drama. Hope the food's good.
Yup. Solid strategy.