Primrose stares at herself in the mirror, the reflection bears a sight of her rueful face, her onyx orbs no longer carry that bright light of joy and love. Behind her stands Lilith, gently combing her hair, like an older sister taking care of her sweet little sibling.

The raven head, donning a beautiful light, airy blue dress that is adorned with butterflies and roses, a stunning display of sweetness and purity. Under Lilith's request, Rosalina has sent this dress to the Vatore's Estate, believing that it will turn her daughter, Primrose, into the belle of the ball.

Lilith giggles in joy as she finishes tending the raven locks, tapping on her shoulder as Primrose once again looks at how dolled up she is under the care of the younger Vatore. The braided tiara on top of her head is intertwined with blue roses that are crafted by Caleb himself, a confession of his love for her. The light makeup on her face only amplifies her innocent nature even more.

"You look gorgeous, Primrose…" the younger Vatore compliments her "I'm sure that you will make his head turn."

The water mage nods her head, forcing herself to smile at Lilith's kind praise. Despite Lilith's attempts to lift her spirits, Primrose struggles with feelings of inadequacy. The most beautiful women she knows are those who are loved and cherished by their partners and she, unfortunately, isn't blessed with that kind of affection.

Two weeks of Caleb's silent treatment have taken a toll on her emotional well-being. Primrose keeps telling herself that everything will be fine, that he will come around and open up to her, that their love is strong and can withstand all obstacles that hurl at their way, but she is wrong…

The vampire lord constantly avoids her, pushing her away as he locks himself in his study room, throwing himself into work as a means of distraction. His cold shoulders serve as a dagger to her heart, the sharp blade continues to jab against the fragile thing, making her feel suffocated in the place that is filled with their love.

She has tried to initiate talking, but anytime she gets a chance to talk to him, something urgent pops up. Whether it is important paperwork, or meeting with butler Richard, or dealing with the aftermath of House Voss's crime, Caleb chooses them over her. Primrose doesn't blame him for being busy, as the Head of House Vatore, he has a duty to his family and people. But that does not excuse him from the harsh treatment he has for her.

At night, when she falls asleep, Caleb returns to her side and offers her a silent form of affection, away from prying eyes, as well as her notice. The way he caresses her hair gently, his soft kisses on her forehead, how tight his hold is on her hand, they are all from the Caleb she loves. Primrose knows this, her feigned sleep is the only time that she allows herself to feel the love and affection he has for her.

"Primrose, no matter what, never doubt the love Caleb has for you." setting a firm hand on her shoulders, Lilith offers her kind support.

Despite the unwavering support she receives from Lilith, the shadow of doubt remains looming over her. Primrose wraps her arms around herself, feeling so small and fragile, the suffocation is too much for her to bear…

The night unfolds and guests arrive at the Vatore estate for the event. The atmosphere is lively, adorned with laughter and chatter. The ballroom is bathed in the warm glow of the chandelier. Tall windows adorn with rich velvet curtains, allowing the moonlight to cascade into the ballroom, a gentle contrast to the warm artificial lighting. The tapestry, bearing the crest of the Vatores, stands proudly on the wall, exuding an air of sophistication and the long-standing history of their family.

Lilith enters the ballroom, her alluring beauty captures the attention of everyone. Kian, standing not far away, wears a warm smile and steps closer to her, placing a kiss on top of her palm. A hand extends to her and the younger Vatore gladly accepts it, wrapping her arm around his. She lets out a soft giggle, appreciating his compliment when he mouths 'You look beautiful' to her.

She nudges her husband, bringing their attention to the grand entrance of the ballroom. Primrose walks up, her innocent look becomes the center of attention. The blue rose on her hair blooms beautifully, expressing itself under the warm light of the chandeliers. She notices eyes on her, some comment on her look, and others fill with judgment. The grand event is a celebration, but for Primrose, it feels like a masquerade where she wears a mask of smiles to conceal the emotional turbulence within.

Silver eyes fall onto her the moment she enters the celebratory space, Caleb is captivated at the sight of his beloved. No matter what kind of clothes she is wearing, Primrose in his eyes is and will always be the most beautiful flower of all. But as soon as her eyes fall on him, he turns away, resuming his social discussions with other nobles.

"Isn't that Lord Vatore's mate?"

"She's that young?"

"But Lord Vatore is not by her side?"

Primrose bites on her bottom lips, picking up the whisperings of the guests as they talk about her. The growing distance, the cold shoulders, and his absence are slowly taking a toll on her mental state. But she stands strong, the pendant bears the crest of House Vatore shines brightly under the chandelier, signifying her role as the Lady of the House.

"My my, look at you. All doll up for nothing."

The raven head turns her attention to the tall figure that is approaching her, it's Inna Cents.

"I'm surprised that Caleb is not with you, usually you would glue to his side in parties like this." a mocking smile spread across her graceful face "Shameless as always."

She flinches at the insult but remains silent. Primrose knows she should not start a pointless argument, taking in Kian's wisdom to ignore the opinions that don't serve her well.

"It seems like he has his fun with you. I have always known that you're nothing but a worthless little girl." the jab continues and Inna only grows to be more relentless in her jeers "Dream big and you will fall hard, Primrose Emberlynn. You have no stand in this world, in his world. Know your place!"

Her comments somehow resonate deeply with her wounded heart. Caleb's silence is slowly killing her inside as she looks at him, silently asking for his support. The young lord, engrossing himself with the aristocratic members of Forgotten Hollow, continues to avoid her.

Lilith and Kian spot Primrose alone with Inna Cents as they hurry to offer their support. But the elites have other plans for them. Surrounding the couple as they start having conversations, the noblemen have completely isolated the raven head and everything works just like Inna has anticipated. Despite their loyalty to House Vatore, a human mate is an unacceptable thing. If they can not persuade Caleb to change his mind, then bullying her out of Forgotten Hollow is the only way.

"Lord Vatore!"

Seraphina steps closer to him, her mesmerizing green eyes stare at his striking silver ones, a bashful smile forms on her face, similar to Primrose whenever she is by his side. With one hand resting on his forearm, the Bloodhaven princess leans in, her bosom pressing against him, giving Caleb a full view of her chest.

"Your innocence may capture the heart of Caleb, but in this world, it is women like Seraphina who are fitted to be by his side." Inna's vile voice continues to haunt her "You have no use for him, human. Get lost and get the hell out of Forgotten Hollow!"

Primrose's onyx eyes open widely as she witnesses the scene in front of her. Seraphina's advances and Caleb's lack of boundaries imprint on her mind. His action, while not intentional, makes her heart crumble in despair. Gripping on her dress tightly, Primrose quietly excuses herself and makes a hasty retreat from the social battleground.

The man she holds dearly to her heart has actively pushed her away, what other reason for her to stay here?

Inna Cents's eerie smile grows wider as she actively chases after Primrose, just a few more pushes and that human wretch will be out of Caleb's life for good. Butler Richard stands from afar, observing the scene. Quietly making his way outside the ballroom, his eyes scan the hall, looking for the raven head.

Despite his distaste for Primrose, Inna's vile intention is clear and while the butler understands her genuine concern for the future of House Vatore, no one is allowed to insult the Lady of House Vatore like that.

"Lady Cents, may I ask what are you doing here?" the wise advisor poses his question the moment he spots the brunette in her active chase "The ballroom is this way, my lady."

"Butler Richard, I was just getting some fresh air."

Inna's answer is stiff. The stoic expression Richard is wearing unnerves her, she can never truly see through what this man is thinking in his mind. However, there is one thing she knows, he also dislikes the idea of Primrose by Caleb's side. If she can just get him on her side and push the young lord into a union with Seraphina Bloodhaven, then…

"I don't believe Lord Caleb would appreciate you chasing down his mate like that."

"Chasing? What do you even mean?" still acting like a graceful noblewoman, she responds to his accusation "That human girl runs away from the party, I am not chasing her or anything of that sort."

Butler Richard narrows his eyes, a warning towards her vile intention.

"Oh Richard, are you truly rooting for that human girl? She is nothing compared to Seraphina Bloodhaven. That wicked girl puts a spell on Caleb and makes him turn against his family legacy and his duty as a Lord." Inna scoffs "She is a witch who thinks she can become a princess overnight."

Her attempt to paint Primrose in a negative light is met with an unfazed butler.

"Butler Richard, you are a wise man. Surely you can see the difference between Seraphina's noble background and that commoner's delusions." The brunette continues her assault "A toad that wants to eat the swan, a pathetic little girl who knows nothing about our world."

The butler maintains his composure, his eyes convey a stern warning against her foul words. No one is allowed to insult the Lady of House Vatore like that, especially not when they are in the Vatore's estate. Primrose may be a pauper who wishes to become a princess, but she is nonetheless the one who holds the key to his lord's heart.

Caleb Vatore may be the lord of House Vatore, but he is also a man who falls deeply in love with Primrose Emberlynn. Her status as a human may not be suitable for the sophisticated world of vampires, but she is his mate, the woman who brings a smile to Caleb's face. Inna Cents as his friend must understand that the young lord is allowed to love anyone he so chooses and not be chained to the expectation of those who wish to latch on the wealth and power of House Vatore.

"Primrose Emberlynn is the Lady of House Vatore, chosen by Lord Caleb himself. It is not your place to pass judgment on their relationship."

"Butler Richard!"

"Lord Vatore and our family will protect her at all costs, even if it means cutting all ties with you, Lady Cents."

Inna flinches at his warning, unable to make sense of why he is choosing to protect her when Richard doesn't like Primrose. Glaring at the butler one more time, she clicks her tongue and makes her way back to the party. The wise advisor's eyes glued on her back, keeping a watchful gaze on those who dare to insult the Lady of House Vatore.

Unbeknownst to him, Primrose is hiding behind the corner of the hallway, listening to everything that has unfolded between him and Inna Cents. Gratitude surges within her as she wonders why butler Richard would go that far to protect her. Kian's words echo in her mind, a reminder of the faithful servant the butler is at serving the family. Despite his distaste, the man still chooses to shield her from the Inna Cent's vile intention.

"Thank you, butler Richard…"

For his action has slowly restored the confidence within her. She is the Lady of House Vatore, the chosen mate of Caleb. There is no reason for her to run away like a coward like this, not from Inna, not from Seraphina, and especially not from Caleb himself.

Caleb…

As the party goes on, so do Seraphina's advances. The Bloodhaven princess has her arm around his, gluing herself to his side just like a parasite. However, no matter how much she seeks his attention, Caleb's eyes never fall on her.

Taking a sip of his drink, the guilt in his heart grows louder. Instead of having Primrose by his side, he chooses to push her away. In a party setting like this, she is his partner, the anchor that guides him back to the present moment after a long and exhausting conversation with the nobles. But she is not here in his arms, he actively chooses to leave her alone in the sea of strangers…

"Lord Vatore…"

The sounds of noblewomen calling his name are buzzing in his ear and Caleb wants to shut them out, he is tired of the constant attention. The other elite men praise him for his victory against House Voss, vile words insulting the family that was once their ally. While the young lord doesn't condemn Selene Voss and her atrocious crime against the innocents, he doesn't appreciate how these aristocrats turn their back on House Voss the moment their family falls out of grace.

Despite wearing a noble façade as the conversations continue, his mind wanders back to Primrose. Her entrance to the ballroom, a stunning image of his lovely mate, donning a sweet blue dress with roses draping over her skirt. Her flustered face, the red hue adds a touch of color to her porcelain skin, is an epitome of innocence and purity. That picture imprints onto his mind, his Primrose is adorable, and once again he is captivated by her.

But she is not his partner tonight as Caleb is busy himself with the guests and conversations with the elites, or at least that is what he is trying to do. He knows Primrose's eyes are searching for him, hoping to catch a glimpse of the man she loves and maybe, a positive change to their strained connection. But he avoids her, leaving her battling on her own as the swarm of noblemen isolates her from the crown, fearing that her rustic upbringing would taint the sophisticated air of the aristocrats.

Primrose…

"Lord Caleb, it seems like something is troubling you…" Seraphina's gentle comment pulls him back to the present "Please, if you don't mind, allow me to ease your mind tonight."

Her subtle offer sounds innocent and all, but the underlying tone is filled with vile intentions. The nobleman laughs, joining her force as they tell him to let loose tonight, and other women are filled with jealousy as they too want to be his partner.

Caleb wants none of that. He wishes nothing more than to have Primrose by his side right now, her gentle touch and tender gaze, the anchor of peace to the storm in his heart. But…

Where is Primrose?

A realization dawns on him as he frantically searches the room, there is no sight of his lovely raven head. Turning his attention to Lilith and Kian, they are also struggling to hold conversations with the elites. The return of Inna Cents, that disgusted expression she wears, fuels the wave of distress in his heart even more as he fears for the safety of Primrose.

"Excuse me, I have some business to attend to…"

"My lord! Is everything okay?" Seraphina still hangs onto him, a toxic vine that refuses to let go "Please, allow me to help."

His shoulders grow tensed as Caleb turns to her, eyeing the arms that wrap around his. With one smooth action, he pries her off and the gentle façade of a noble is replaced with a stoic manner.

"Lady Bloodhaven, the mistress title does not suit you at all. You will do well to keep that in mind."

The Bloodhaven princess gasps, her face is bright red at the insult and Caleb takes his chance to leave, unbothered by Inna's complaints that he has gone too far.

"Caleb! Caleb!"

Inna continues to call him, anger rises as she deems his words uncalled for. To throw such a foul remark to Seraphina is a disgrace to his name and the Vatores.

Lilith and Kian, although surrounded by many guests, can't help but give Caleb a standing ovation. Their brother finally comes back to his senses. Butler Richard's watchful eyes follow him, knowing where he is heading and who he is looking for. His distaste for Primrose Emberlynn is evident, but she is also the only woman who makes his lord happy. The dilemma within the wise butler continues to rise, yet he knows his duty to protect House Vatore, even if it means extending his loyalty to a certain raven head.

Caleb treads down the hallway, following the elegant staircases, the distant murmur of the party fades away, replaced by the loud thudding sound of his tailored shoes. The echo of his footsteps matches the rhythm of his heart, a sense of dire and hasty. He continues to search for her small figure, hoping to catch a glimpse of the familiar raven locks. The shadow of his tall stature casts on the wall, the Vatore estate, usually a place of comfort and familiarity, feels like a maze as he navigates through the dimly lit corridors.

"Where is she?"

The dreaded expression on his face mirrors the rising fear within him. They are in the Vatore estate, his home, an unforgiving place for those who are lurking on Primrose. Surely, nothing happens to her, right…?

He checks the kitchen, the rose garden, the reading room, and even considers entering Lilith and Kian's private quarters, desperate to locate Primrose. Servants shake their heads, unable to provide any information. The rose garden, where they could have shared a quiet moment, stands empty. The reading room, where she often immerses herself in books, lacks her presence. His study room, where she once tried to bridge the gap between them, is devoid of her. The silence of the estate now feels haunting, amplifying his fear for her safety.

"Primrose, where are you?"

It is only when Caleb enters his quarters and makes his way to their bedroom that his tensed shoulders finally slump with ease. Relief floods through him, washing away the fear and anxiety that have gripped his heart. There she is, his beloved flower…

Primrose is standing on the balcony of their bedroom, enjoying the stillness of the night. The magical luminescence casts on her delicate figure, weaving itself into her lush raven locks. The blue rose that adorns her hair, Caleb's confession of love, blooms beautifully under the soft moon glow. Forgotten Hollow, usually shrouded in gloom, is now touched by the enchanting image of his sweet and innocent mate. The mist that often veils the town seems to part ways for the luminous glow surrounding her.

The soft night breeze dances on her skin, bringing a refreshing air to her internal turmoil and Primrose closes her eyes, allowing herself to be embraced by the radiance of the night sky. The wind rises, knocking the blue rose off her hair as it falls down onto the vines beneath the balcony. She stares at the blossom, worries fill her eyes as she tries to reach down and retrieve the flower crafted by Caleb.

As her delicate body hangs dangerously on the railing, worries surge in Caleb's heart as he fears for the worst, that his beloved is thinking of ending this suffering with an extreme measure. Refusing to accept her rash decision, he rushes to her side and in one swift move, Primrose finds herself in his arms, her feet dangling in the air.

"C-Caleb…"

"What were you thinking?" he almost yells at her "Why? Do you hate me that much that you want to…to…"

No, even Caleb can not finish that sentence. His voice trembles with a mix of anger, fear, and desperation, his arms tighten around her. The vulnerability in his eyes mirrors the pain he feels at the idea of losing Primrose.

"N-no, I was just…"

"No Primrose! I won't allow it. You can hate me all you want, but I won't allow you to resolve this in that drastic measure."

The raven head winces, feeling her eardrums ringing at his loud voice. She stares at him, unsure how to explain herself. Everything happens so fast, just a moment ago, he treated her like a stranger, and now, she is the most precious gem he refuses to let go. But the worries in his eyes are genuine and she can feel how trembly his hold is around her.

"Caleb, the flower…" she motions him to the fallen rose "I just want to retrieve it. It fell down…"

He follows her direction, finding the blue rose on the vine underneath the balcony. But even so, he can not allow her to waste her life for a mere flower like that. Has she not seen herself dangling dangerously on the railings earlier? She would be a goner if he had not been there to stop her.

"It's just a flower, Primrose. You don't need to…"

Caleb startles when her hands are on his lips, refusing to let him finish his sentence.

"No Caleb, it's not just a flower. The rose you planted is special to me…"

Her frustration is evident as she looks offended by his comment of just a flower. It may be a mere flower to Caleb, but to her, it is his confession of love. She refuses to let anyone look down on such a meaningful gesture. Understanding her distaste for his take, Caleb sighs and sets Primrose down on her feet, he leans over the railing, retrieving the blue rose with ease.

Sometimes, she just needs to be a tad bit taller for the task…

With the flower in his hand, Caleb lifts her up and walks over to their bed before placing her on his lap, cradling her cheeks in his hands. He has overthought the situation to the point he chooses to believe that she would do such a silly thing as…

Sensing his internal turmoil, Primrose sighs. She needs to reevaluate her choice of tackling the task as it seems like Caleb just saw his life flash before his eyes, something that mirrors a close-to-death experience. The way he pinches the bridge of his nose, the relief sigh that escapes his lips, the way his tensed shoulders slump down, how his finely combed hair is now tousled, despite their ongoing tension, Primrose almost can not hold back her chuckle.

"Caleb, I'm sorry…" her fingers trace his cheek as she offers a small smile "I didn't mean to scare you."

Her apology extends beyond this little stunt, it is also for her recklessness and stubbornness during Lilian's rescue mission. Primrose knows she is at fault for not trusting him, she knows that her impulsiveness has brewed his frustrations and in turn, causing him to bruise her. The raven head knows he cares for her, and although the silent treatment hurts, his nighttime ritual of caressing the bruise on her wrist and whispering loving words speaks louder than the broody expression he wears during the day.

Another wave of relief washes over Caleb as he looks at the blue rose in his hand, his testament of love, and puts it back on Primrose hair. The velvety blue color adds a touch of elegance to her overall appearance, the sweet and innocent mate that he adores deeply. He too needs to apologize for the silence that grows between them. Had he not allowed his anger and fear to dictate his feelings, none of this would have happened.

"I'm sorry too, Primrose. I never meant to hurt you like that." placing a kiss on her forehead, he sighs, the weight in his heart slowly fading away "These past weeks had been…unbearable…"

Caleb knows that he has stirred the painful memory that resides within the depth of her heart, the day he left without a single word. The fear of abandonment, of how history is slowly repeating itself has resurfaced. He understands her struggle to break free, to no longer allow the past to dictate her future, but his actions open the wound that Primrose has desperately tried to heal from.

"I'm sorry…"

Primrose's smile only grows wider as she wraps her arms around him, hiding her flustered face in the crook of his neck. The velvety rose petal brushes against his skin as Primrose snuggles against him more, feeling his hold tighten. The first apology is for his silence for these past weeks, the second one is for reopening the past wound of her heart, she knows this very well. The Caleb she has known and loved is here, one who cherishes her more than anything else in this world.

"Let's not fight again…" she murmurs softly, her voice carrying a mix of vulnerability and sincerity "I don't like it when we fight…"

Caleb nods, holding her ever closer. He has witnessed the toll of their cold war on her, noticing how lighter she is when he cradles her in his arms, how her shoulders seem smaller, and how those onyx orbs lack the bright light he used to see. It pains him to know that distancing himself away from her, fearing that he would hurt her again, only fuels the pain in her even more. He hates himself for doing that to Primrose…

"Oh, I forgot…" she lifts her head from his shoulder, her eyes twinkling in joy "I passed the advanced concoction test."

"Congratulations, beloved!" he can not hold back his excitement as well "That is amazing!"

"Well, it's not exactly flying color, but I managed!"

Her soft giggles are a ringing bell to his ears. Their shared bedroom, once a place filled with stillness and ambient air, is now lit up at her beaming face and joying smile. Cradling her cheek in his hand, Caleb can't help but steal a peck on her lips, it has been too long since he last tasted that sweetness of hers. Primrose's face is painted in a lovely shade of red as she leans, closing the gap between them. A kiss that closes the sad chapter of their story, a promise to never hurt each other again. It is soft and gentle, the way he kisses her, how he holds her close, and how those fingers caress the raven strands that cascade down her shoulders. A tender touch to a new beginning…

When they break away, Primrose can't help but giggle. Even after two weeks of their silent war, their kiss still makes her feel butterflies in her stomach. Her heart thumps loudly, pounding against her chest. This gentle moment they share is precious to her.

"Do you want to go back to the party?" leaning against her forehead, he whispers.

"If only I can be by your side this time…" a playful jest with a hint of love coming from her.

"Well of course, you are and always will be by my side, beloved." nodding to her request, he smiles against her lips "I love you."

Her arms hold him closer as she nods, finding herself walking on cloud nine at his confession.

"I love you too, Caleb…"