I studied my reflection as Mia, my maid, carefully applied makeup to my face.
"I'm surprised, Lady Rose," she remarked, her voice carrying a hint of amusement. "You actually seem to be enjoying dressing up."
I smiled slightly. "It's not like I dislike it."
Mia tilted her head. "Funny. Weren't you the one who told me that since I wouldn't be at the Academy with you, there was no point in bothering with makeup?"
I shrugged. "Times change."
Mia's eyes sparkled with knowing mischief. "Ohh, I see now. It's that boy… Arthur, right?"
I gave her a look. "Mia, are we done?"
"Almost," she hummed, stepping back to admire her work. "After all, your competition is strong. You need to stand out."
I blinked at her words.
Stand out?
My gaze flickered back to the mirror, and for a moment, I saw myself standing next to them.
