Chapter 119: Ignorance or Denial?

The morning sun had barely begun to cast its first light over the imperial city of Celestia, yet Nikolai was already engrossed in the process of meticulously adjusting his cuffs. He took a deep breath, focusing intently on the task at hand while making a concerted effort to avoid glancing back at Ophelia, who was preparing herself behind him. If only he had eyes in the back of his head to catch a glimpse of her. “Can I turn around now?” he asked slowly, turning his head to glance over his shoulder. Ophelia's laughter bubbled up cheerfully. “You can.” Nikolai's turn was met with a mix of excitement and trepidation. His anticipation dissolved into disappointment as he saw Ophelia, fully dressed in a thick black cloak that completely concealed her white dress beneath. The cloak covered her neck too, leaving only her face visible. “You just crushed every hope I ever had,” he murmured with a slight, resigned sigh, lowering his head in mock defeat. “Don’t be so dramatic,” Ophelia chuckle