"No, I should be the one apologizing, Duchess. My clumsiness made you fall. Please, forgive me," Prince Edward said, kneeling down.

"Your Highness, you're garnering a lot of attention. Stop this and let's talk somewhere private," I whispered, trying to hide my annoyance.

"Of course, you're forgiven, Your Highness. How can I not forgive the First Prince?" I said loudly, trying to diffuse the situation.

Meanwhile, Countess Kartessen took Ethan to the table where the young nobles were sitting. "Let's go, Lord Ethan. Young Master Elvor wants to meet you," she said, trying to avoid any more problems.

As we parted ways, Prince Edward leaned in and whispered, "Perhaps we can discuss this further, Duchess? I'd love to catch up on old times." I nodded, and we excused ourselves to the balcony.

The cool night air hit us as we stepped out onto the balcony. The city lights twinkled below us, and the sound of music and laughter filled the air. Prince Edward and I stood at the railing, looking out at the view.

"I've missed this," Prince Edward said, his voice low and nostalgic. "I've missed talking to you, Celeste."

I smiled, feeling a pang of nostalgia. "I've missed talking to you too, Edward. It's been a long time."

We stood there in silence for a moment, enjoying the view and each other's company. Then Prince Edward turned to me, his eyes serious.

"Celeste, I have to ask you something. Why didn't you tell me about your pregnancy? I had to hear it from someone else."

I sighed, feeling a twinge of guilt. "I'm sorry, Edward. I didn't want to burden you with my problems. And besides, it was a complicated situation."

Prince Edward nodded, his expression understanding. "I see. Well, I'm here for you now. If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask."

I smiled, feeling grateful for his support. "Thank you, Edward. That means a lot to me."

As we talked, I couldn't help but notice the way Prince Edward looked at me. It was a look I hadn't seen in a long time, and it made me feel... complicated.

Meanwhile, back at the table, Ethan was chatting with the other young nobles. "I'm Ethan Orlo Cubresia, the son of Duke and Duchess Cubresia," he said, bowing politely.

The other nobles introduced themselves, and they all seemed friendly. "I'm Adrian Dekis Elvor, the son of Lord Elvor of Elvor Guild," one of them said. "I'm Edmund Clive Alastair of the Alastair Marquisate," another added.

As they talked, Lady Penelope couldn't help but stare at Ethan. He was so charming and handsome, and she found herself feeling drawn to him.

"Lord Ethan, did you hear that there's going to be a festival in the capital soon?" Lady Penelope asked, trying to sound casual.

Ethan's face lit up. "Yes, I heard about it. It sounds like fun."

Lady Penelope smiled, feeling a flutter in her chest. "Yes, it will be. Maybe we can attend it together?"

Ethan's eyes sparkled with excitement. "That would be great! I'd love to go with you."

As the night wore on, Ethan and Lady Penelope grew closer, bonding over their shared interests. Meanwhile, Prince Edward and I continued to talk, our conversation flowing easily.

But as the night drew to a close, I couldn't shake the feeling that something was about to change. And I wasn't sure if I was ready for it.