AVELINE

As I descended the creaky wooden stairs, a sense of foreboding washed over me. The air was thick with the remnants of yesterday's tension, and I steeled myself for the familiar hostility that awaited me. As I entered the hallway, I caught the disapproving glares of the servants, the eyes narrowing in arrogance at my presence. It was a daily reminder of my status as the family's outcast, a child born from infidelity.

When I stepped into the dining room for breakfast, the memories of my last family dinner loomed heavy in my mind. I could still see the echoes of that night; the laughter shared, the warmth of familial bonds, all sharply contrastes by the betryal that had shattered my world. The dining table, now adorned with a simple breakfast spread, felt like a stage for yet another performance of disregard.

All my family members were already seated, their expressions a mixture of indifference and forced politeness. I took my place at the edge of the table, aware how out of place I felt among them. Just as I was to pick at my food, my father's voice boomed across the table, drawing everyone's attention. "I have an announcement," he declared, his tone firm and commanding. "His Majesty King Roland has chosen our house to send at least one member of the family to send to Duke Edric Lytheryss, the Duke of North, renowned.

My heart raced. In my past life, House of Starcrest had been chosen, but I never expected that House of Thorne would be selected this time. As my father continued, my mind whirled with possibilities. Perhaps, this is a sign of new beginning that could change everything. But then Viscountess Diana, mother, suddenly spoke up, voice smooth and calculated, "I suggest we send Aveline. Henry must focus in his training to become the heir of the house, and Emilia is too fragile for such journey."

My heart dropped. The room seems to tilt, the room closing in as my family nodded in agreement. Henry, with his stoic demeanour, and Emilia, with her facade of concern, both sided with their mother's suggestion. It was decided and I felt the weight of their decision. Despite my initial resistance, a flicker of hope ignites within me. This could be my chance to break free from the suffocating chains of my life in this manor. The House of Thorne has been chosen, perhaps not to sacrifice me but to provide me with an opportunity-- a chance for me to prove myself.

"Maybe it's for the best," I murmured, swallowing my fear. "It may be the only way out."

Emilia feigned sadness, her eyes shimmering for false empathy. I could see it through the act, knowing it was just another layer of betrayal in a house that had never truly embraced me. As my mother praised me for my acceptance, satisfaction evident her voice. I realise that I am being used as their pawn in their grand game.