As she refused to resign to the fate the royal family painted for her, a wicked plan started to take its course. Tonight, she would have an overnight company. The royal family would then be accused of giving a deflowered bride to the high and mighty Byun.

For a moment, as her decision took precedence, she held her breath. Her fingertips trembled badly as fear slowly crept in. Her hair stood on ends and legs slightly wobbled. However, this slip of vulnerability quickly faded, her determination remaining undampened.

The night was young. Leah bit her lower lip tightly and continued to grace the street shrouded with her disguise—black hair and brown eyes—in nothing but darkness and obscenity.

Drunk people walked in faltering steps underneath the lit lamps that hung between old buildings. Giggles sounded as vulgar, filthy jokes delivered in boisterous tones were spoken.

Leah squeezed her cloak tight around her body. After she carefully checked each establishment that she passed by, she finally found her target place—it was a shabby inn which looked like it would collapse anytime soon. The knob felt cold under her palm as she hesitantly pushed the wooden door open.

The inn was already full of tipsy, intoxicated people. Naturally, she attracted some attention upon her entrance. But soon, those who turned their gazes to Leah lost interest and continued chattering among themselves.

Before coming here, she already made arrangements. Her company would be seated in the most concealed corner of this establishment, wearing a dark ensemble for discretion.

Her gaze darted to every nook and cranny of the place and it was not long until a man donning dark cloaks in an inconspicuous corner caught her attention. He was buried in the shadows, away from the bustle and hustle. At a quick glance, the man seemed to blend in darkness—the shadow and him merging into one, difficult to differentiate.

Leah slowly started to draw nearer the mysterious man. Upon reaching him, she tapped the table where the man was seated and instantly, the lone hand that held the wine glass froze in mid-air.

"Are you my company tonight?" She asked boldly, feeling the tension between them. Finding him different than others, her interest grew, seeking any sign of help.